The smart meter program is in effect in the US and many places in Europe. BChydro have been implementing this program since 2011 too. The smart meter program claimed to reduce electricity consumption, increase efficiency and decrease cost. However, many household received a significantly more expensive bill. Concerns on safety, security, privacy and the purpose are raised and consumers remain skeptical about the device. A coalition to stop smart meter and some concern group were brought up and conflicts between customer and BC hydro becomes imminent.
BC hydro’s smart meter team should focus more on its marketing strategy to promote a positive image of the meter. It should be emphasized that smart meter is a social responsibility of a global citizen as it decreases energy consumption. Transparency on meetings and public hearings should be held to clarify the functions and details of the smart meter. Concern groups should be invited to the decision-making process so that they would be more involved, thus more likely to identify with the smart meter.
Source: http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/british-columbia/bc-hydro-pulls-smart-meters-for-testing/article534384/
http://www.bclocalnews.com/opinion/177533611.html
http://usuryfree.blogspot.ca/2012/01/smart-metre-issue.html