Lawmakers in Lansing heard complaints against utility company DTE Energy today. A state House committee meeting was focused largely on smart meters.
Several customers say DTE Energy shut off their power after they refused to switch to a new smart meter. DTE says people can opt out, but there is a service charge.
Representative Gary Glenn wants to prevent utilities from charging people who opt out of a smart meter if they agree to report their meter readings to the utility.
“Why not just let people go find some accommodation?”
DTE says it doesn’t discontinue service without a reason. They say if people tamper with the equipment, refuse to let employees access the meter, or lock their meter to prevent upgrades, then they’ll shut off power.