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3 facts you need to know
About… Smart Meter opt-outs
By Bill Bennett
Kootenay East MLA
1. British Columbians have embraced wireless digital technology with 96% of hydro ratepayers accepting Smart Meters. Smart Meters enable better management of the electricity grid, reduced costs, better law enforcement and opportunities for conservation.
2. For the four per cent who don’t want a wireless digital meter, they now have two opt-out choices – keep their old analog meter until it quits working or take a new digital meter with the radio off. Those without a Smart Meter today must advise BC Hydro by December 1 if they want a new digital meter with radio off.
3. Those of the four per cent who chose one of the opt-outs will be charged the cost of having their meter read manually plus the other costs associated with not taking a Smart Meter. The 96% of British Columbians with a Smart Meter will not be subsidizing those who chose to opt out. More details are available on the BC Hydro web site.
