Op Ed

Here's an example of how the industry is attempting to court the "media" in an attempt to win over public opinion re: Smart Meters.

Glenn Steiger, CEO of Glendale Light and Power writes:

The utility's success in implementing this project and program hinges on the creation of an effective dialogue with customers in order for them to understand it, and for us to meet their needs and address their concerns while helping them understand and take advantage of the full benefits of the technology.

The letter, brochure, bill inserts, and all related smart grid advertising had the same look, same message and remained consistent throughout the entire smart meter installation project. The Web site was updated regularly with FAQs, information on radio frequency, benefits of entering the smart grid and installation schedules.

Older, under-recording water meters were replaced with extremely accurate meters, therefore producing higher bills.

As more and more negatively focused videos get uploaded to YouTube and the Internet links shared among groups, more and more people can be misinformed about the benefits of the technology instead of how it can assist our customers.