Smart meters are on their way to the Sunshine Coast, but if local governments have their way, the process many not be so simple.
Local politicians have raised concerns over potential health risks associated with WiFi transmitters in the meters similar to those in cellular phones and other items that emit electromagnetic radiation.
Recently, both Gibsons and Sechelt councils passed motions urging BC Hydro to study the issue further, with potential input from the Ministry of Energy and Health Canada.
"As to the actual health impacts, some of it is indeterminate, but there are enough people who are concerned and they want the option as citizens whether to have it on their home or not," said Sechelt Coun. Fred Taylor, who suggested the motion at their July 6 meeting.
Coun. Keith Thirkell supported Taylor and discussed the Sunshine Coast Regional District (SCRD) board's decision to not become an early adopter of smart meter technology, which was a motion passed by the board last month.
"I concur with Coun. Taylor. If there was an opt-out component, I think it would be supportable, but they are trying to get everyone in the program," said Thirkell. "The regional district board did vote not to become an early adopter of this program and there was considerable concern from the other directors about many aspects, not just the health aspects, but the privacy aspects. So I think it's a good motion and I certainly support it."
In addition to posing questions regarding health risks, SCRD directors cited concerns over cost and privacy before nixing the early adopter option.
Some Sechelt councillors didn't agree with worries over technology and privacy issues.
"I wouldn't vote for this until I had an awful lot more information," said Coun. Ann Kershaw responding to Taylor's motion.
At the July 5 council meeting, Gibsons Mayor Barry Janyk said he doesn't feel local government can do much about the program and that installation is coming either way.
BC Hydro insists smart meter technology is safe, but has taken note of concerns surrounding the issue.
Gary Murphy, smart meter chief project officer, said smart meters operate for less than one minute a day and the signals are far lower than some of the strictest regulations in the world.
He also pointed out that a 20-year exposure to a smart meter is the equivalent of a 30-minute cell phone call.
Murphy feels it is important to clear up misinformation on the program and is taking steps to do so.
"We're in the process of setting up meetings with local government and chambers of commerce now, and they'll be hearing from us soon. I hope we can have an effective dialogue and walk away with a mutual level of understanding," Murphy said.
- With files from Christine Wood
