Before our pandemic situation became the topic of internet conversation, the big threat to our existence was new technology. For months I saw conversations around threats associated with Smart Meters. A simple Google search of “Smart Meters Causing” gives you pages and pages listing everything from flickering lights, inflated electrical bills and house fires to headaches and cancer caused by this new technology.
Now a lifetime ago, I was your local meter reader for Nova Scotia Power, but then I thought maybe I should talk on the radio for a while. Well had I not, it seems I would be seeing my old job entering major evolution and possibly becoming extinct for the most part. Smart Meters allow for instant readings any time without anyone having to come to your property to do so.
Letters have started coming to us here on the South Shore and I got one the other day.
I wanted to see what would happen if I wanted to keep my old metering system, so I gave the number a call.
I had heard there was a monthly fee for not switching to the Smart Meters, so I thought I would get some details. The lady I spoke with told me the actual switch over to Smart Meters is not planned for my area any time soon. When I asked about keeping my old meter she told me there is a $4 per month fee to do so, maybe! That fee is based on the meter only being read twice each year and the representative told me that is currently being reviewed by the Utility and Review Board. She said that in the event they decide meters have to be read more than twice each year, that fee would likely increase.
Not sure what to think about paying a fee for the majority of bills to be estimated if I don’t switch to this new technology, certainly a change from what we are used to.
I have to say the lady I talked with was very helpful. I can only imagine the challenges of answering questions when there are so many unknowns around this new system. I would recommend reaching out if you have questions 1-800-428-6230 or head to the website for info at nspower.ca/smartmeters
