Jan 25, 2012 1:21 PM<\/p>\n
To defuse opposition from smart meter foes and allow utility companies<\/p>\n
to move forward with grid modernization plans, utility leaders may have<\/p>\n
to consider creating smart meter opt-out programs regardless of the<\/p>\n
validity of opponents\u2019 concerns about health, safety and privacy,<\/p>\n
according to Chartwell\u2019s latest industry report, Smart Meter Opt-Out\u00a0Programs 2012.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
Some utilities may be forced into creating such programs. In May,<\/p>\n
Central Maine Power was subject to the first regulatory ruling by the<\/p>\n
Maine Public Utilities Commission that required a smart meter opt-out<\/p>\n
program. The California Public Utilities Commission could become the<\/p>\n
second regulatory body to require an opt-out program for Pacific Gas &<\/p>\n
Electric, with a decision date of Feb. 1.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
While developing viable opt-out programs is a growing priority for<\/p>\n
utilities, Smart Meter Opt-Out Programs 2012 shows that not just any<\/p>\n
program will suffice. Offering to disable the RF transmitter after<\/p>\n
installing the smart meter, for example, does not always satisfy vocal<\/p>\n
opponents. According to the report, an analog option has better<\/p>\n
potential to neutralize smart meter conflicts and clear the air for<\/p>\n
better customer outreach efforts with the vast majority of customer who<\/p>\n
will choose smart meters.<\/p>\n
In addition to detailing which opt-out programs seem to be getting the<\/p>\n
most support, the report discusses the positive impact on customer<\/p>\n
satisfaction when utilities offer customers options, regardless of<\/p>\n
where they fall in the smart grid debate.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
SMART CUSTOMER \/\u00a0SMART METER<\/strong><\/p>\n – Smart Meter Opt-Out Programs Spread Across North America<\/p>\n – PG&E Completes Stadium Electrical Improvements, Testing to Ensure\u00a0Candlestick Park Ready for Playoff Game<\/p>\n – El\u00e9ctrica de Guayaquil Completes Smart Metering Implementation in\u00a0Latin America<\/p>\n – BC Hydro Goes Live with Itron\u2019s MDM System for SAP Utility AMI\u00a0Solutions<\/p>\n – FirstEnergy’s Paperless Option Offers Convenience to Electric Utility<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Read more:<\/p>\n http:\/\/tdworld.com\/customer_service\/smart-meter-opt-out-0112\/#ixzz1kVFZXDh6<\/a><\/p>\n