The Editor,
Re: "Act on smart meters, MLAs," Letters, April 25.
I welcome all input in the smart meter discussion. My government colleague Rich Coleman is keenly aware of concerns raised and has dealt immediately with any and all issues related to the smart meter file.
Smart meters won't only improve the reliability of B.C.'s electric grid through closer monitoring, but also was deemed safe by B.C.'s Provincial Health Office, Health Canada and the World Health Organization.
BC Hydro and our government have also committed to the absolute privacy and security of electrical customers whose billing data is encrypted. While well over one million smart meters have now been installed, less than one-tenth of one per cent of the devices have had operational problems. These rates are similar to, or lower than, old style meters.
While there is no opt-out options for customers at this point, customers who haven't had a smart meter installed can request to be put on a "Do not install" list.
This will be a temporary hold while BC Hydro will contact the customer to discuss their concerns. The cost of electrical consumption in B.C. is among the lowest in the world. We want to keep it that way.
Linda Reid, MLA Richmond East.
