Law would create Smartmeter opt-out

Assemblymember Jared Huffman (D–Marin) introduced legislation today to provide an “opt-out” alternative for customers who do not wish to have a wireless Smartmeter installed.

Huffman said his AB 37 is a response to consumer concerns raised over potential health effects of the advanced metering infrastructure currently being installed by California utilities.

“This bill is about giving consumers reasonable choices,” Huffman said.

The law would temporarily suspend deployment of Smartmeters until an opt-out alternative is in place.
SmartMeters transmit usage information via a microwave signal – a high-tech version of a ‘meter reader’ going yard to yard. PG&E said the technology with give consumers more information and more rate options to help reduce energy use and costs.

Critics are concerned the radiation generated by the SmartMeter system could pose a health hazard.
“Whether or not you believe radio frequency exposures from Smartmeters are harmful, it’s only fair that consumers who are concerned about health effects be given complete technical information and the choice of another technology for devices that are installed at their homes,” Huffman said.

Huffman’s bill directs the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) to provide a Smartmeter “opt-out” alternative for customers, and require utilities to make the option available using wired technology that provides equivalent smart grid reliability and efficiency.

“We can do that while preserving the effectiveness of the smart grid and all the benefits it will bring for consumers and the environment,” he said.

Huffman said numerous constituents, along with the Marin County Board of Supervisors and several city councils, have expressed concerns about the potential health effects and have questioned whether current federal standards are sufficient to ensure the protection of public health.

The Sonoma City Council heard a presentation on the Smartmeters last month. The Sebastopol City Council was set to ban the system, but decided it lacked the jurisdiction to do so.

Huffman’s law would mandate that utilities to disclose important information about the Smartmeters to consumers, including the timing, magnitude, frequency and duration of emissions so that individual consumers can make informed decisions.