Whether we like it or not, every single home and business in British Columbia will soon be outfitted with a smart meter.
For the unaware, smart meters are a new type of electricity meter that measures electricity usage more often, allowing the utility company (B.C. Hydro) to charge different rates based on time of use.
To be honest, when I first heard about the concept, it sounded like a solid idea. Adjusting consumption and making everyone aware of just how much electricity they use can bring about awareness and could allow us to cut back in some areas.
But, just like the way the HST was brought in, the implementation of the smart meters in this province reeks of B.C. Liberal Party arrogance.
I'm not even going to discuss the oft-mentioned health risks associated with these devices. Studies seem to be inconclusive but any additional radiation in our homes can't be a good thing. Health risks are a lot easier for the government and its slew of experts to dismiss. I think the real damage will be done to our wallets.
It's also an issue of privacy. Why does the government need to know how, when, where and why I'm using my electricity? Is it really necessary?
Sadly, I think the entire smart meter policy could well be a response to the ever-failing "war on drugs." Smart meters could be a way to monitor and possibly seek out homes using a lot of electricity to grow illegal drugs. That is, if the harvesters don't figure out a way to mess with their smart meters (hint: type "hacking smart meters" into Google).
What's really upsetting is that this whole endeavour will cost taxpayers close to $1 billion. If the drug trade is what this is all about, instead of smart meters, why not give some of that money to police to ramp up investigations? I'm sure they could use the cash.
What the government also doesn't seem to understand is that it's unclear that smart meters will reduce usage. How is the average family supposed to cut back? Our schedules are fairly consistent: We need to get ready in the morning then head to work or school and peak period is dinner. I don't really see how installing these meters will reduce consumption.
Indeed, I believe the implementation of smart meters will only lead to increased bills, consumer frustration and eventually increased fees during usage during peak hours.
And above all, we had zero say in this process. We were not consulted during this whole process, nor were our MLAs.
It's essentially increased taxation without representation and it's frightening that residents of this province can do nothing to stop it.
