You may have heard that many entergy companies across the nation are beginning to implement "smart meters". These smart meters monitor the electricity consumption of your home, and transmit the results wirelessly back to your power provider. In theory, they are also supposed to provide the consumer with accurate readings, and help the average home owner to monitor their power consumption. The ease of self monitoring would help consumers reduce their energy consumption, and make them more aware of peak time energy use.
Unfortunately, there are some kinks that need to be worked out. Many people who are currently using the smart meters are complaining that readings are inaccurate. Furthermore, the fact that the customer does not always have the option to retain their original power meter irks others. There is also skepticism that the benefits of these meters do not justify the costs.( link )
I can definitely see where the motive is behind these smart meters. If the kinks are worked out they could reduce cost and energy consumption, as well as help power companies avoid potential black outs. But, until the technical glitches can be worked out, it is unfair to press the unproven meters on customers. At the very least, customers should be given the option to reject the new smart meter.
To conclude my thought, this technology should not be forced on the public until it can be guaranteed that the new systems work properly, and it has been proven without a doubt that the expenditure is financially justified.
