Energy smart meter issues creating north-south divide

How are they energy "smart"? Or is "Energy Smart" just the name of the program or device?

To me, energy smart implies the device somehow uses energy more efficiently than a device that is not "smart". This just seems to be a meter with built-in cell feature that sends monthly usage data back to the provider so they don't have to send a meter reader out to the house. Sure that saves the company money but has no real affect on the customer's energy use. Or am I missing something here?

A couple months ago, I noticed I had a new gas meter on the side of my house. It too sends usage data via the cell phone network to the gas company so they no longer have to have a reader walk the neighborhood. Did that result in a lower gas bill? Nope.

The electric company here has an "optional" program where, if I opt in, they will install a device on my air conditioner unit. Then, on really hot days during peak demands on the power grid (3pm to 7pm) they will signal my AC to stay off for a designated amount of time to conserve electricity. They claim the temperature inside of my home will increase by no more than 3°F. To me 3°F can mean the difference between being comfortable and being uncomfortable.

Yes, during those peak demand hours, it will save the power company energy. What they don't say is our ACs will have to cycle on and stay on longer after 7pm to bring the temperature inside the house back down to normal levels. I note the sun is still beating down on our homes in June and July until 8:30 - 9PM here in Eastern Nebraska - not to mention still muggy and heck.

What do customers get for participating in this program? A $20 credit per year - not month, but year. No thanks. If I want to reduce my energy costs, I will program my "smart" thermostat to a higher temp.

 

Don't forget that they can remotely shut your service off as well.

 

No they can't. That requires physically throwing a switch for the electric or turning a valve for gas. That would be WAY too expensive to install such remote controlled electro-mechanical devices at each individual location. If they could do that, they would make much more sense to simply put all the meters at a central office/distribution center instead of at each customer's location.

 

Depends on your provider and where you live. There are plenty of examples of it being possible if you google the subject. If they can't do yours, lucky you.
Companies introduce remote shut off valves for gas meters | Smart Energy International

 

I stand by what I said - though I should have been more clear. Please note I was responding to your comment where you quoted me where I was referring the meters referenced by stapp. Those do not allow for remote shut offs.

I did not say such remote shut-off devices don't exist. I am saying that is not what these meters do.

That said, those you refer too still requires the remote device be attached at the customer's location and to do that on a wide spread basis would be very costly.

 

Thanks for the clarification.