Relating to authority of an electric utility customer to choose not to have an advanced meter.
The legislation aims to enhance consumer protection within the utilities sector by providing customers with a clear option to retain traditional electromechanical analog meters. If a customer opts out of the advanced meter installation, they cannot be penalized with additional fees or charges by the utility company. Moreover, customers can communicate their preference by various means, including posting a notice on their current traditional meter or verbally informing utility workers at the time of installation. This flexibility is designed to accommodate customer preferences while ensuring transparency in utility operations.
House Bill 3656 focuses on the authority of electric utility customers to choose whether or not to have an advanced meter installed in their homes. The bill mandates that electric utilities must inform customers about their right to decline the installation of an advanced meter, which is characterized as a digital, radio frequency emitting device. This notification must be included in the customer's monthly utility bill, thereby ensuring that all customers are made aware of their rights regarding meter installation.
Despite the consumer protections outlined in HB 3656, there may be contention surrounding the future of advanced metering technology in the state. Utilities may argue that advanced meters provide benefits such as improved monitoring and efficiency in utility management. Therefore, some stakeholders may view this bill as a hindrance to modernization efforts within the electric utility sector. Furthermore, there might be discussions regarding the balance between consumer choice and the potential advantages that advanced metering could offer in terms of better resource management and cost savings for both utilities and consumers.