If you're upset about having to choose between a SmartMeter or paying extra for an analog one that's manually read, you'll have a chance to voice your opinion. The California Public Utilities Commission is holding a public hearing about the costs associated with PG&E's SmartMeter opt-out plan.
Thursday night, consumers will be able to turn up the heat on utility officials. Customers have been able to opt out of their SmartMeters since February but it comes with a price, one customers need to know about.
Consumers opting out of the SmartMeters are charged an initial 90-dollar fee plus a monthly charge of 15 dollars thereafter. Those who are enrolled in CPUC's low income program are only charged five dollars a month.
PG&E officials say only about 300 customers in Kern County have opted out of their SmartMeters so far even though they were controversial.
"We're not seeing a tremendous amount of customers choose to opt out," said PG&E spokesperson Denny Boyles. "I think its because once customers have had the opportunity to see what the SmartMeter is and what it doesn't do, I think they see a lot of value in it."
If you want to learn more about switching out your SmartMeter, the meeting will be at the City Council Chambers on Truxtun Ave. and starts at 6:00 p.m.
