To the Editor:

Re: “Smart meter radiation...,” Alaska Highway News, June 1, 2012.

BC Hydro’s smart meters are safe. They use radio frequency signals that are similar to what is used in television and radio.

B.C.’s Provincial Health Officer, Health Canada and the World Health Organization all confirm the wireless meters pose no known health risk.

Independent testing confirms the meter communicates for less than 2 seconds per day. Smart meters are below the strictest standards in the world for radio frequency that are based on the precautionary principle.

Smart meters are an important part of upgrading and modernizing the electricity grid which delivers power to almost 1.9 million customers and supports our economy. They will also get the lights back on faster during power outages and provide customers with tools to conserve energy and save money.

Upgrading the electrical metering system and grid will deliver $1.6 billion in savings to British Columbians over the next 20 years and help keep our rates among the lowest in North America.

Gary Murphy

Chief Project Officer, Smart Metering and Infrastructure

BC Hydro