Smart meter rollout begins | Heads up Mitchell Shire!

Posted on July 20, 2012 by Stop Smart Meters Australia

SMART meters will soon replace analogue electricity meters across the Mitchell Shire as part of new industry standards for 2013.

SP AusNet is now installing the new technology throughout the shire including Beveridge, Broadford, Heathcote Junction, Kilmore, Puckapunyal, Pyalong, Reedy Creek, Seymour, Tallarook, Tooborac, Wallan and Wandong.

“Victoria’s energy needs have changed; we are using more power today than ever before,” an SP AusNet spokesperson said.

“Smart meters are the first step towards smart grids, which can help us better manage the complex energy flows associated with an increasing contribution from renewable energy sources.”

The new technology will be installed in all Victorian households and small businesses by the end of 2013. Replacement of the meters began in 2009 and there are more than one million meters installed across the state.

Smart meters are remotely read so a meter reader does not have to visit consumer’s premises, which reduces the need for estimated billing.

The spokesperson said the smart meter has the ability to record electricity consumption in 30 minutes intervals and allows for accurate remote reading reducing the need for estimated bills.

They said other benefits of the rollout include more energy choices, restoring power faster, reducing estimated bills, faster connections, improved efficiency, accessible information and low costs.

While the information available from energy companies shows the positive effects of the new system, there are many groups opposed to the rollout.

Smart meters lobby group, Stop Smart Meters Australia, has published information about the technology on its website, highlighting many perceived flaws and health risks associated.

Some of the information compiled alludes to health risks, additional costs, privacy concerns, fire risks, environmental concerns, a link to glioma, human sensitivity to the high frequencies transmitted, and billing errors.

The Energy and Water Ombudsman Victoria said customers raised 64 per cent more issues about estimated bills in the second half of 2010 than in the second half of 2009.

While many of Stop Meters Australia’s claims are unfounded, the group has gained much support.

As of yesterday morning, an ongoing petition against smart meters which was first published on October 27, 2011, has received 1582 signatures.

via Smart meter rollout begins | Local News.

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From your Smart Meter Lobby Group: Well done everyone we are really making an impact. Keep up the good work.

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Public Meeting Horsham Sunday 22nd July 2.30pm

Posted on July 19, 2012 by Stop Smart Meters Australia

Posted in Meetings | 8 Comments

Stopping smart meters on the peninsula – Mornington Peninsula Leader

Posted on July 17, 2012 by Stop Smart Meters Australia

TAMARA Hicks is leading a street vigil to stop smart meter contractors in their tracks.

Ms Hicks is one of a group of residents from Sixth Ave and surrounding streets angry they may be forced to have the devices fitted against their will.

The group has posted signs banning workmen access to properties and some have locked up meters by drilling holes and fitting padlocks and chains.

Installation of the meters has begun at other houses on the street by the United Energy contractor Jemena.

“I will do whatever I have to do to stop them,” Ms Hicks said.

“If I have to chain myself to the meter box then I will.

“I have concerns over what effect they may have long-term to my health.”

Ms Hicks said she suffered multiple chronic illnesses and had a medical certificate stating these may be exacerbated by close proximity to electromagnetic frequency devices, such as smart meters.

Energy Safe Victoria recently released a report that found smart meters do not pose any greater safety risk than older meters.

Lola Kurzman, 89, fears the meter will increase her bill.

“We are on a budget and don’t see a reason for any change,” Ms Kurzman said.

United Energy corporate affairs manager Stuart Allott said while the company was entitled to replace the meters, he said contractors would not cut locks.

Read the rest of the article via YOUR SAY: Stopping smart meters on the peninsula – Local News – News – Mornington Peninsula Leader.

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Powercor has lost the plot!

Posted on July 16, 2012 by Stop Smart Meters Australia

Locks on Meter boxes are now claimed to be a “defect in your electrical installation” by Powercor. The defects require your attention to ensure the safety of your installation and the exchange of your current meter for a smart meter. The defect identified is Lock on your meterbox. They then go on to say “this may require you to engage a Registered Electrical Contractor”. “When the works are completed, please fill out and return the enclosed Compliance Declaration Form”.

They are also asking tenants to “provide Property Owner details”. (we ask wouldn’t this be a problem under the Privacy Act that we regular citizens have to abide by? Or is this Powercor’s way of getting around it?)

They say if you have any questions to phone them – WE STRONGLY SUGGEST YOU DON’T PHONE THEM, KEEP EVERYTHING IN WRITING.

They have also attached an information flyer and the first paragraph states: “What are your responsibilities in regard to customer installation defect rectification?” The flyer then states, “Under the Electricity Distribution Code, customers are responsible to ensure that the wiring and electrical installation at your premises are maintained in safe conditions. Unsafe conditions could lead to a risk of electrical shocks, overheating of wiring, fire starts or other safety issues”.

WE FIND THIS UNBELIEVABLE THAT THEY COULD PUT IN WRITING THAT A LOCK COULD DO ANY OF THESE THINGS AND THAT THEY CONSIDER THE INSTALLATION OF A SMARTMETER TO BE THE “SAFE” OPTION FOR US. If this is how they define a defect, then SMARTMETERS SHOULD BE BANNED BECAUSE THERE HAVE BEEN EVENTS INDICATING THAT SMARTMETERS CAN CAUSE electrical shocks, overheating of wiring, fire starts or other safety issues.

Perhaps we could send a letter back stating that our lock has been checked and it is working fine, and definitely not posing any “risk of electrical shocks, overheating of wiring, fire starts or other safety issues” and that we are not aware of any “wiring and electrical installation” at our premises that hasn’t been maintained in safe conditions.

All those getting these ridiculous letters, get your pens out again, write your response, (remember to keep a copy and if possible send it registered post keeping the receipt of the reg post with your copy) decide whether you want to keep your meterbox locked, and keep your “no consent” sign (downloadable here) and make sure you have the very important no trespass sign (download here) at the entry to your property.

We cannot emphasise the importance of the “no trespass” sign enough. Put the signs up everyone, they are making a difference and it shows others who are making a stand what to do as well. We have just created a new sign on the http://www.vistaprint.com.au site – its called a “lawn sign”, measures 455 mm x 305mm, is weatherproof and is clearly seen from the road. We have attached a picture and asked stopsmartmeters to put it on the site for others to download here. If you wish to use it you could print on an A4 and laminate if you like, but this looks big, bold and clear.

Good luck everyone and stay with the fight to take the Power back over forced installations many of us believe are against our democratic and human rights.

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Public Meeting Churchill Friday 20th July 7pm

Posted on July 15, 2012 by Stop Smart Meters Australia

Posted in Meetings, Smart Meter | 1 Comment

Open letter to Hon. Michael O’Brien, Minister for Energy and Resources

Posted on July 14, 2012 by Stop Smart Meters Australia

13/7/2012

Who is really spreading misinformation?

An open letter to Michael O’Brien Victorian Minister for Energy and Resources

 Sir,

On the 10th July 2012 you spoke on ABC Radio Gippsland. It was in response to an earlier interview dealing with an anti-smart meter petition and during that interview you said the following quotes:

“…I am very concerned about the level of misinformation in the community…”

“…smart meters have had problems but these problems don’t include safety…”

“…the smart meter programme is safe…”

Then you specifically referred to me by name and continued ‘…spreading misinformation and quite frankly scaring people who have got every right to reject the information…”

You also said that you knew of no actual evidence that smart meters pose health risks.

So, my challenge to you is this:

You have accused me of promoting unsubstantiated information, yet I can supply over 100 independent research articles from experts all around the world, saying the same thing I did:

…Wireless technology is potentially harmful, the standards used by Governments and industry are outdated and irrelevant, and that EMF should be treated with caution, particularly around children. Many scientists, biologists and environmental researchers believe the rapid deployment of smart meters is dangerous and should be halted.

I can back up my statements (research links have been supplied with this letter). Can you back up yours?

Minister O’Brien, can you supply over 100 credible, NON industry research papers that show smart meters are safe? Many Victorians await your reply.

A. Nugent, Bairnsdale, Vic.

Related post: State Government says smart meters are safe – ABC Gippsland Victoria

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Sixth Avenue Rebellion (Rosebud)

Posted on July 14, 2012 by Stop Smart Meters Australia

We’ve locked up meters and put signs up in ten houses.  The Leader Newspaper has taken our pictures and are putting a story about our concerns, especially health.  Ages of protesters range from 40’s to 90.  Evidently installers aren’t coming near our properties and also if you have more than one analogue and a timer they haven’t figured out how to put the smart meter on with all this and where to put it in the meter box as there’s no room.  Also never get electrical work done under their advice as they are giving incorrect advice and the list of complaints with the Ombudsmen is so big it will take ages to get your case heard.

We didn’t have to read about the hub houses but are working to start identifying them so that families know they are getting an even bigger dose of RF.  Also threats that if you don’t get a smart meter and something goes wrong with your power then you will be charged to get power back on with a smart meter.  Of course they wouldn’t be offering to deduct any expenses from what you have already paid for this Surveillance Meter And Radiation Transmitting device that you don’t want.

We figure the next tactic will be shutting of our power en mass somehow and making out it’s an accident.  Complain immediately to the Energy and Water Ombudsman if you are threatened with cutting off power.  If it wasn’t so cold I would get it cut off !!!  The other issue is the sneaky solar meter version which a neighbour has but as they didn’t have signs up they also have a smart meter. Lock em up and put signs up and keep a look our for installers.  I speak to them about the issues and give them the Stop Smart Meters Australia information sheet.  Talk about your neighbours concerns using their names and point out that elderly people do not need further worry and ask about their children.  And an important question for them is who owns Jemena??

Take information sheets down your street explain about the signs and help people without computers and printers.  A high lockout rate can be achieved if you have some time and cheaper copying at the local newsagent.  Nobody has been rude to me nobody wants the meter and those that have it have health and other concerns.  People want help and information that is not power company rubbish.

Meeting 9th August Station Street Seaford.  Keep an eye out for details in the Mornington Leader or Stop Smart Meter Australia Site and once there is a flyer ask to put it up in shops etc.

Everybody has to do what they can, fill-out the go petition especially the comments section where you can complain and the ARPANSA Health Complaints Register so that eventually our concerns about levels will need to be forwarded to the Commonwealth Government to create pressure for standards to be lowered.  Include radiation levels in your home, read by an independent person or buy your own meter.  Also you can ask your doctor for a medical certificate especially if you have previous/current illness and send to power company.

Get a letter from your electrician stating that you intend to have your meter box moved away from your house (if possible) but avoid the” get smart” meter at all costs.  The risks to health and damage to human DNA for future generations are huge.

Sixth Avenue Rebellion.

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DAYLESFORD SMART METER PUBLIC MEETING – Resounding Success!

Posted on July 12, 2012 by Stop Smart Meters Australia

The community information night recently held at Daylesford was a resounding success with 80 people reported to have attended. Ballarat’s Win Television, Ballarat Courier, Daylesford Advocate and Bendigo Advertiser all covered the community event.

The topics covered were health, privacy, costs, safety and a thorough discussion ensued. The Victorian DLP senator John Madigan attended and spoke alongside two representatives from Stop Smart Meters Australia. The Hepburn Shire Councillor Bill McClenaghan chaired the meeting. The Central Highlands Against Smart Meter action group was expanded on the night.

The following resolutions were unanimously accepted.

  1. That this meeting of residents of Daylesford and surrounding districts, calls on the Victorian Government to halt the ‘Smart Meter Rollout” to allow for a full investigation into community concerns.
  1. That this meeting;
  • Supports the right of customers to refuse installation of smart meters and to have their decision respected by the electrical distributors.
  • Calls on the five power distributors to immediately cease bullying tactics as part of their State Government directed “best endeavours” to install meters by 2013.
  1. That people who are experiencing health problems that are considered to be caused by an installed smart meter should have the meter removed and replaced with an analogue or non-wireless meter at no cost.
  1. That a letter be written to Premier Baillieu requesting that as a matter of urgency, the Minister for Energy Michael O’Brien, agree to meet with representatives of community groups concerned with the smart meter rollout to hear and discuss their concerns.
  1. That customers who have had a smart meter installed against their will should have the meter replaced at no cost with an analogue or non-wireless meter.

6. That Council is asked to support resident’s in their endeavours to protect

themselves from the negative impacts of the smart meter rollout.

This includes;

· Escalating costs

· Loss of Privacy

· Billing problems

· Safety matters

· Health issues

7. That Council is asked to establish a community register of residents experiences and concerns with the smart meter rollout.

8. That Hon. Catherine King MP, Parliamentary Secretary for Health and Ageing, be contacted and requested to advocate that current ARPANSA standards be adjusted to match the 2009 Judgement of the Versailles Court of Appeal.

9. That this meeting agree to form an ongoing campaign committee to address the above matters.

Related post: Public Meeting Daylesford Thursday 5th July 7pm

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State Government says smart meters are safe – ABC Gippsland Vic

Posted on July 10, 2012 by Stop Smart Meters Australia

State Minister for Energy and Resources Michael O’Brien has rejected claims that smart meters pose health risks.

Activist group Stop the Smart Meters Australia is calling on the State Government to stop the roll out of smart meters across Gippsland.

The group has collected about 1000 signatures from East Gippsland residents who support the group’s fight against the smart meters.

Allanah Nugent from Stop the Smart Meters Australia says ‘the risk of smart meters far outweigh the benefits.’

She says international studies prove that radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (EMF levels) emitted by the smart meters pose health risks.

“We know that what we’ve got now isn’t safe, it’s only going to get worse if we allow this blanket of electromagnetic pollution,” she told ABC Gippsland’s Mornings program.

Listen to the interview with Allanah Nugent from Stop the Smart Meters Australia talking with Celine Foenander

Read the rest of the article and listen to the interview with Michael O’Brien, Victorian Minister for Energy and Resources talking to Celine Foenander via State Government says smart meters are safe – ABC Gippsland Vic – Australian Broadcasting Corporation.

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ARPANSA Electromagnetic Radiation Health Complaints Register Reporting Form

Posted on July 9, 2012 by Stop Smart Meters Australia

Stop Smart Meters Australia has come across an Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA) Electromagnetic Radiation Health Complaints Register Reporting Form. Unfortunately this reporting form doesn’t seem to be well publicised, but we plan to change this!!

As the Complaints Register Reporting Form states, ARPANSA is responsible for protecting the health and safety of people and the environment from the “harmful effects of radiation”.

We encourage all who are suffering as a result of electromagnetic radiation (for example, smart meter radiation emissions) to download this form and complete it.

The more people complete this register, the more the authorities will understand the inadequacies of Australian radiation safety standards.

Download the form here repform.doc

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