To the Editor:

Smart meters—really?

CMP is winding down the installation of their so-called “smart meters” in the Lewiston-Auburn area while many consumers are unaware of the many reported health hazards.

The meters emit a high frequency RF/microwave radiation and in May 2011 the World Health Organization classified wireless radiation to include cell phones and smart meters as a Class 2B possible carcinogen, the same category as lead, engine exhaust and the pesticide DDT.

People are reporting symptoms of headaches, dizziness, insomnia, fatigue, nausea and heart palpitations. Interference with electronic devices such as printers, fax machines, computers and TVs have also been reported after the installation of the meters.

We, as consumers, can decide if and how long we will use cell phones, microwaves or computers; however, mandating that these meters be installed throughout an entire community takes away that freedom. We are being mandated by a profit-making monopoly to have it attached to our homes 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You may choose the opt-out program; however, if you live in a congested neighborhood, you still are surrounded by these meters 24/7 and will be charged a one time $40 fee and $12 monthly additional fee for something you don’t want.

Municipalities and public officials across the country are coming out against deployment of smart meters; in California, 40 different communities have banned or slowed or criminalized the installation of these meters. California is presently trying to obtain an opt-out program similar to what we have here in Maine.

We applaud the people of Maine who banded together and expressed their concerns to the PUC and their elected officials thus securing an opt-out program for Mainers. We personally heard many people testify in Augusta about how sick they became once the meters were installed on their homes. These people have no agenda. They merely wanted their health back.

Power companies have an agenda: to make a profit. The town of Bath presently has a moratorium on the installation of these meters.

The people of Maine need to find their own truth. To find out more about these menacing meters, simply to go “smartmetersafety.org” and you’ll wonder why they call it a “smart meter.”

Normand and Suzanne Renaud

Lewiston