PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — Maine’s largest electric utility says customers can’t be allowed to opt out of its “smart meter” installation program.
In a filing with the Public Utilities Commission, Central Maine Power says the alternatives being suggested by opponents of smart meters are too expensive and it could threaten $96 million in federal funds being used to help pay for them.
The Portland Press Herald reports the utility says the only workable option for customers who don’t want the meters is to install them away from areas of concern. And that can only work if the customer pays the extra cost.
Advocates say smart meters will help reduce energy consumption, but opponents say they pose a health risk.
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Information from: Portland Press Herald, http://preprod.pressherald.com
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