Uncovering the Truth Behind Smart Grid & Smart Meters

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Awareness of smart grid technology and smart meters in North America is notably low, with limited mainstream media coverage. Concerns about smart meters primarily revolve around privacy and safety, with some individuals protesting against their installation, fearing that utility companies may misuse data. Critics argue that the technology is unnecessary for most consumers, who already understand their peak electricity usage patterns. Proponents counter that smart meters eliminate the need for human meter readers, reducing errors and costs. The discussion highlights a divide between those who view smart meters as a luxury and those who see them as a beneficial advancement in energy management. There is skepticism about the motivations of some forum participants, with warnings that industry-affiliated voices may skew the conversation. Overall, the debate reflects broader concerns about technology, privacy, and the justification for investment in smart grid infrastructure.
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In North America, awareness of smart grid/smart meters remains low. Mainstream media doesn't discuss much about this technology. People who protest against it get arrested. So, I got curious.

Could you describe your biggest concern relative to smart grid/smart meters?

I was told to search for "Citizens Against Smart Meters" website to read their views, but couldn't find the website.
 
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That's because there is nothing about the meters that is harmful.

If you search for information from crackpot sites, all you will get is crackpot information.

Here is information on smart meters...

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Smart_meter
 
BenVitale said:
In North America, awareness of smart grid/smart meters remains low. Mainstream media doesn't discuss much about this technology. People who protest against it get arrested. So, I got curious.

Could you describe your biggest concern relative to smart grid/smart meters?

I was told to search for "Citizens Against Smart Meters" website to read their views, but couldn't find the website.

Smart grid/meter? You mean something to monitor electricity consumption :rolleyes: why would anyone protest that?
 
Evo sent a private message on this issue, and I've answered back. I'm waiting for a confirmation before I can post, here, in this thread, the reasons of this protest.
 
Do you really need a meter to tell you how much electricity each appliance is using? Most people realize that the highest level of consumption is during the day. For this knowledge should we have to spend billions, and have a dangerous device on each home and apartment? Frankly, this seems a "luxury" that can't be jusitifed.

People must be cautious -- many posters work for the industry and not all responses are completely valid.
 
BenVitale said:
Evo sent a private message on this issue, and I've answered back. I'm waiting for a confirmation before I can post, here, in this thread, the reasons of this protest.
They are safe Ben. Your fears are unwarranted. Do not post unscientific nonsense in this forum.

http://www.ccst.us/publications/2011/2011smart-final.pdf
 
Sharon2 said:
Do you really need a meter to tell you how much electricity each appliance is using? Most people realize that the highest level of consumption is during the day. For this knowledge should we have to spend billions, and have a dangerous device on each home and apartment? Frankly, this seems a "luxury" that can't be jusitifed.

People must be cautious -- many posters work for the industry and not all responses are completely valid.
The meters are to elliminate costly human meter readers. It will eliminate a lot of human error. I don't see any down side.

Of course kooks are everywhere and love to scare themselves and others over non-existent issues. People were protesting because they think the electric company is using the meters to gather information on them. Gee, you think? :smile:
 
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Sharon2 said:
Do you really need a meter to tell you how much electricity each appliance is using? Most people realize that the highest level of consumption is during the day. For this knowledge should we have to spend billions, and have a dangerous device on each home and apartment? Frankly, this seems a "luxury" that can't be jusitifed.

People must be cautious -- many posters work for the industry and not all responses are completely valid.

Welcome to PF, I'm afraid I find the ignorance of this post is astounding! If you are going to claim something you are going to need to back it up with references from peer-reviewed literature.
 
I went out to my meter to find out if it was one of those smart-meter devices. What a surprise, there are about 30 smart meters hooked up to my house. Everything going in and out is being monitored. No wonder I've been getting all those emails about Rolexes. However, the one that scared me the most is the one that is monitoring my PF usage.
 
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LOL Jimmy.

I think it's time to close this down.
 
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