Recently, a new kid has arrived on the technological block. A “boarder” in everyone’s living space costing them money, watching their activities and compromising their health.
In Surrey, as in all B.C. communities, the kid is on the doorstep.
Soon, If BC Hydro has its way, every resident and business establishment will automatically, without meaningful education, consultation or ethical options, be obliged to live intimately with at least one smart meter.
BC Hydro’s misguided plan to deploy these wireless meters is being inaccurately promoted as a “green initiative” and launched without proper understanding or foresight. It is shaping up to be a blunder of monumental and far-reaching proportions.
Similar initiatives in the U.S. have, with much opposition, resulted in city-wide moratoriums, increasing in number. Here, the meters are upon us, but due to the seeming complicity of government, industry and media, few citizens are aware, let alone prepared to speak intelligently about, or pursue, options. As yet, most of us in B.C. still have our attention focused elsewhere.
There is no doubt in my mind that Hydro’s decision to buy into so-called smart meters and smart grids is a huge and damaging mistake on so many levels: safety, security, human health, cost, environmental impacts and human rights.
The impossibility of avoiding wireless influences in the community will now expand to everyone’s personal space.
If we accept smart meters, we open ourselves up to consequences. After “smart” electricity meters come “smart” water meters, and “smart” gas meters. Heck, “smart” everything.
Hydro has suggested that persons with health issues should move off-grid. What kind of option is that?
Linda Ewart
White Rock