Smart Meter News

SMART METER NEWS

Have you heard about Smart Meters? You probably already have one on your home and don't know it. Are they dangerous to your health? The debate rages on with a lot of misinformation being fed to the public. Decide for yourself after taking a look at the info. Here's an article from the website of Dr. Mercola which discusses some of the latest findings and results of studies being done on this polarizing issue.

Getting Smarter About the Smart Grid

The featured report "Getting Smarter About the Smart Grid" highlights widespread misunderstandings about the alleged technological benefits of the new 'smart' utility meters, including disturbing misunderstandings among state and local government officials, energy policy experts, advocates for renewable energies, environmental nonprofits, and experts at the highest federal levels.

The report builds the case that beyond privacy, security, safety and potential public health risks of the present smart meters, the very basis on which the meters have been presented to communities may have been misrepresented — as the meters themselves actually have nothing to do, according to Dr. Schoechle, with achieving sustainability, developing a smart grid or even stimulating the economy.

The smart meters, he says, do not facilitate the integration of renewable technologies, or local or 'distributed' power generation, key elements of a 'smart grid' that could support a thriving new energy economy. And, "data to be collected by the smart meters, including intimate personal details of citizens' lives, is not necessary to the basic purpose of the smart grid,such as supply/demand balancing, demand response (DR), dynamic pricing, renewable integration, or local generation and storage, as promoters of the meters, and uninformed parties, routinely claim."

These misunderstandings have unfortunately been perpetuated by media who regularly take industry-affiliated spokespeople at their word, and give the impression that smart meters of the kind being installed today are necessary components of a smart grid. In a PBS News Hour program³ (July 20, 2012), for example, the myth of energy efficiency from smart meters, and smart meters being necessary building blocks for a smart grid, were uncritically shared with PBS audiences, according to Duncan Campbell, Esq. who wrote the Foreword to the new report. Edward Randolph, Director of Energy for the California Public Utilities Commission, said:

"The vast majority of all of the input and evidence is that, you know, society is going to benefit from the smart meters. I mean, the energy-efficiency savings alone in the long term for the state of California is going to be a large economic benefit for most rate payers."

Helen Burt, Chief Customer Officer, Pacific Gas & Electric, stated on the same program:

"Well, a smart meter is really a basic building block of a smarter grid. And a smart grid is being built all over the United States to connect solar power and other pieces of intermittent renewable power into the electric system"

Dr. Schoechle, author of "Getting Smarter About the Smart Grid," however, calls the smart meters being rolled out across the U.S. "a canard — a story or hoax based on specious claims about energy benefits…" He says the right investments for a true smart grid have been delayed by the focus on new meters.

The U.S. govt. has put a lot of money and effort into the installation of Smart Meters with little insight into the health dangers and exposure to outside hackers. Get informed and help to keep our country a place where free Americans still have the right to choose what happens in their own homes!

Protect Yourself From EMF!

10 Ways to Protect Yourself from EMF Exposure

Electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure is linked to many acute and chronic illnesses and conditions, and electrical sensitivities are a serious emerging public health concern in which most doctors have no training. Everyday we are exposed to EMFs from a number of common sources that can be found where we live and work. Here are some tips to help you lessen or even avoid exposure:

The Office and Computing Area

1) Whenever possible, avoid working directly on a laptop computer by plugging in a secondary keyboard and mouse to help lessen your exposure (this is especially helpful if you are working on it for extended periods of time). I highly recommend to avoid placing a laptop on your lap, especially when it’s plugged in. Many laptop computers produce a strong EMF, especially when plugged in to an electrical outlet as they are charging a battery in close proximity to where you rest your hands or your computer.

2) When replacing (or updating) your computer monitor or TV, opt for a liquid crystal display (LCD). LCDs emit much less radiation than the old CRT style monitors that use a cathode ray gun to excite the phosphors on the screen.

3) Clean up the electrical power cords and transformers around your computer and desk and reroute them away from your feet and seating area. Transformers and power bars around your feet while you work can be a huge EMF exposure point, especially if you spend a lot of time on your computer.

Wireless Technology

4) Avoid installing a wireless network (wi-fi) in your home. In October of 2007, the German government advised its public to avoid using wi-fi because of the possible health risks they pose. Wireless routers emit electromagnetic radiation even when they aren't in use.

5) When purchasing a cordless phone, try to avoid one that uses DECT technology. In 2005 the German government also banned this type of wireless technology. The base station of these phones constantly transmits a strong radio frequency signal, even when the handset is just sitting idle in the cradle. If you have one, keep it turned off as much as possible. DECT technology is also used in some baby monitors, so be sure to phone the manufacturer prior to purchasing one to see this type of technology was used in its production.

6) Limit the time you spend talking on cellular and cordless phones and only let children under 14 use them for short periods of time (when absolutely necessary). Lately we’ve been hearing about the possible health risks associated with cell phone radiation. It is important to understand that cordless phones use electromagnetic radiation to communicate - just like cell phones - and radiation exposure is cumulative no matter what the source.

More at http://www.naturallysavvy.com

Here's some tips on how to protect yourself from EMF exposure.

News About Smart Meters

Today's article from Smart Planet addresses the ongoing debate about Smart Meter Safety. The many concerns about fires, radiation, and security are discussed and some different insights are presented.

Smartplanet

The Morning Briefing: Are smart meters dangerous?

By Charlie Osborne | September 7, 2012, 12:45 AM PDT

1.) ComEd: Smart meter installation causes three area house fires. The installation of smart meters, the devices promising customers real-time information about peak electricity use, has caused three small fires in area homes, ComEd has confirmed.

2.) Top 6 common myths about smart meter danger exposed. There’s a lot of talk about smart meters and how they can help communities use power more efficiently, conserving energy and thus reducing costs. However, some claim that smart meters are hazardous to human health, emitting dangerous high frequency radio waves that can cause illness and disease.

3.) Risk of smart grid security breaches higher than ever. It’s no secret that cyber security is an integral part of the smart grid, but utilities and regulators are continuing to grapple with the best way to fortify themselves against the expanding host of cyber threats.

4.) Fire concerns over smart meters appear overblown. About 35 people die in fires in British Columbia every year, most of which could have been prevented. So the fact that at least two fires broke out in homes after the installation of smart meters is a concern. British Columbians have a right to expect that the installation of the new meters is making them safer, not put-ting them at greater risk.

5.) Smart meters too toxic to touch. It is perhaps the biggest single public policy failure in the energy sector of the past decade - mandated smart meters which are being introduced in Victoria. With the cost of the roll-out now estimated at more than $2 billion - more than twice the initial estimated cost — it has added another lucrative profit source to the activities of the power distributors.

See article at:http://www.smartplanet.com/blog/bulletin/the-morning-briefing-are-smart-meters-dangerous/154?tag=nl.e660&s_cid=e660

Like many such articles the facts about health issues are poorly researched and little understood. Electromagnetic radiation is a real health concern and should not be dismissed as easily as the power industry would like. The other issues that surround the mandatory installation of Smart Meters are also a valid concern and should be noted by all citizens that could possibly be affected.

Metal In Your Body Raises EMF Sensitivity!

More EMF News from Dr. Mercola!

This article from Dr. Mercola talks about EMF Radiation sensitivity and how heavy metals in your body can increase your reaction to EMF around you.

Heavy Metal Toxicity Raises Your Risk of Electromagnetic Sensitivity

By Dr. Mercola

Electomagnetic fields (EMFs) are all around us, no matter where you live these days.  They emanate from power lines, televisions, household electrical wiring, appliances and microwaves.

They come from cell phones, cell phone towers and wireless Internet connections.

It is estimated that 3-8 percent of populations in developed countries experience serious electrohypersensitivity symptoms, while 35 percent experience mild symptoms, according to Dr. Thomas Rau, medical director of the world-renowned Paracelsus Clinic in Switzerland.¹

There are a number of factors that influence the degree to which you may be affected by EMFs.

For example, your body weight, body-mass index, bone density, and water and electrolyte levels can alter the conductivity and biological reactivity to EMFs. Heavy metals in your brain also act as micro-antennas, concentrating and increasing reception of EMF radiation.

How Heavy Metal Toxicity May Make Electrohypersensitivity Worse

The issue of heavy metal toxicity in relation to electromagnetic toxicity may be one of the most significant. According to Dr. Yoshiaki Omura’s research, the more your system is contaminated with heavy metals from silver amalgam fillings, eating contaminated fish, living downstream from coal burning power plants and so forth, the more your body becomes a virtual antenna that actually concentrates radiation, making it far more destructive.²

 Likewise, any kind of metal implants and/or amalgam (silver) tooth fillings will significantly increase reception of microwaves, and the mircrocurrents from cell phones and other ambient fields. In case you’re wondering how to detect electrohypersensitivity, the five most common symptoms are:

1. Skin itch/rash/flushing/burning, and/or tingling
2. Confusion/poor concentration, and/or memory loss
3. Fatigue and weakness
4. Headache
5. Chest pain and heart problems

Read the whole article at:http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2012/08/25/heavy-metal-electromagnetic-fields.aspx?e_cid=20120825_DNL_artNew_2

Many people are complaining about unexplained pains and fatigue as we continue to fill our homes and work spaces with electronic devices emitting EMF radiation. There are solutions to the radiation problem and they can be used to reduce or eliminate your exposure.

Find out more at this link.

Natural Protection Against EMF Radiation

There are some ideas about protection from Radiation. Here's an excerpt from Natural News

Radiation - How to protect yourself from its effects safely and naturally

Tuesday, July 17, 2012 by: Lloyd Burrell

The natural approach

A strong, healthy thyroid is the best protection from radioactive iodine-131 (nuclear power plant steam), and EMF exposure. Steven Schacter, author of Fighting Radiation with Food, Herbs and Vitamins, explains, "If sufficient amounts of natural iodine are available, radioactive iodine will not be absorbed." Schacter advises eating seaweed (kelp) to obtain natural iodine.

Eating foods naturally high in iodine will supply the thyroid with adequate amounts of iodine, discouraging the absorption of radioactive iodine, and protecting it from EMF damage.

These foods are high in iodine and part of a natural, safe approach.

• Other seaweeds and sea vegetables
• Cranberries or cranberry juice
• Potatoes with the skin
• Beans - especially navy beans
• Himalayan crystal salt

For protection from cancers induced from radiation eat a variety of:

Dark leafy greens and orange starchy foods - (sweet potatoes, winter squash, carrots).

Additional protection:

• Milk thistle - a proven detoxifier
• Siberian ginseng - facilitates overall cellular health, strengthens body against all types of stress, including cancer treatments
• Curcumin - antioxidant and scientifically proven anti-inflammatory, protects and helps tissue healing
• Ecklonia cava - antioxidant seaweed extract
• Drink plenty of pure water every day to eliminate toxins
• Visual imagery - the power of positive thinking through the visualization of wellness throughout the body

Learn more: http://www.naturalnews.com/036492_radiation_protection_natural_remedies.html#ixzz220jDLcsI

There are different methods for blocking all types of radiation. Get informed and stay safe!

Smart Meter Radiation Is Real

Are Smart Meters Safe?

Smart Meter Radiation is a major point of contention. The utility companies say Smart Meters are safe and emit little radiation. Many organizations dispute their findings and are warning the public about the possible dangers of Smart Meters. Here's some news and recommendations from the American Academy of Environmental Medicine.

Doctors Warning: “Avoid Smart Meter Radiation”

Posted on July 14, 2012 by onthelevelblog

Avoid smart meters- Doctor's orders!!

The American Academy of Environmental Medicine (AAEM), an “international association of physicians and other professionals interested in the clinical aspects of humans and their environment,” have released recommendations for patients with a broad array of illnesses and symptoms to avoid exposure to digital smart meters now being deployed internationally by governments and utilities.

The recommendation, which includes reference to 20 peer-reviewed studies showing biological harm from wireless technologies, indicates that patients with neurological, neurodegenerative diseases, genetic defects, cancer, and other conditions would benefit from avoiding pulsed RF radiation from smart meters.  The recommendation says:

“Physicians of the American Academy of Environmental Medicine recognize that patients are being adversely impacted by electromagnetic frequency (EMF) and radiofrequency (RF) fields and are becoming more electromagnetically sensitive.

The AAEM recommends: that no Smart Meters be on these patients’ homes, (and) that Smart Meters be removed within a reasonable distance of patients’ homes…”

More At :http://stopsmartmeters.org/2012/07/14/doctors-warning-american-academy-of-environmental-medicine-recommends-patients-avoid-smart-meter-radiation/


During meetings where the public is invited, utility companies parade expert testimony about the safety of their Smart Meters and how they will make the power grid more reliable. They cite numerous studies that show the meters are safe and emit minimal radiation. We just don't know how much Smart Meter Radiation is safe since the technology being used hasn't been put on every persons home until now. Join in the conversation and let the power companies know how you feel!

Share this post with others. Feel free to comment on the use of Smart Meters.
Do you want a Smart Meter on your home?

EMF Stopping Wallpaper

WallPaper Stops Electromagnetic Radiation!

This Article from CNN talks about the production of a wallpaper that stops Electromagnetic Radiation from entering a room. It would be an excellent choice for bedrooms and family rooms where you spend a lot of time.

Signal-blocking wallpaper stops Wi-Fi stealing (and comes in a snowflake pattern!)

By Olivia Smith, Special to CNN

New York (CNN) - Imagine wallpaper that does work for you and for your electronics. Wallpaper that doesn’t only protect your walls, but also protects your health, equipment and data.

Researchers at France’s Institut Polytechnique de Grenoble have worked with the Centre Technique du Papier to develop Wi-Fi-blocking wallpaper. The product, also known as metapaper, claims to selectively filter, reduce or reflect electromagnetic waves.

Metapaper not only protects against intruders stealing Wi-Fi from buildings, but also ensures that signals inside a building are more secure and stronger, the group says. Benefits include data security for companies or people that need dependable Wi-Fi. The wallpaper can also be used to create quieter spaces for places like hospitals and movie theaters.

The high-tech paper does, however, allow FM radio waves and emergency frequencies to pass through. The paper, which has a snowflake pattern on it but can be covered up by traditional wallpaper, is made from renewable resources and is recyclable, according to the Centre Technique du Papier.

Conductive silver ink and metallic patterns on the wallpaper filter around 99% of waves coming from outside, according to the French newspaper Le Monde, which published a story on the topic earlier this year. However, a room cannot be completely safeguarded by the paper - unless you use it to seal off floor, ceilings and windows, of course.

The metapaper also advertises itself as a healthy alternative, since it claims to reduce a person's exposure to electromagnetic waves. Scientists behind the product point to studies that say the overuse of wireless technology could cause harmful heath effects.

More at: http://whatsnext.blogs.cnn.com/2012/07/18/signal-blocking-wallpaper-stops-wi-fi-stealing-and-comes-in-a-snowflake-pattern/

There are additional measures that can be taken to limit Electromagnetic Radiation in your home. There are products to cover windows and shielding screens for the electronic devices you have inside. There are Scalar products that claim to neutralize the effects of EMF on your body. Take a look at these and see if there is something that fits your budget and can lower your exposure to these possibly harmful emissions. 

Will The "Experts" Protect Us?

If you somehow think that the government or even the people involved in the science behind our electronic devices are making sure that we the public are safe from Electromagnetic Radiation being emitted, you might want to check out this article from The Washington Times.

“In Experts We Trust” …or should we?

"It means that in the USA the evaluation of health risks and development of appropriate safety standards is prepared in the USA by industry scientists under direction of cell phone manufacturer's scientist. The proposed safety standards are then voted by ICES members. Few dissenting opinions, like mine, do not matter. Scientists, dissatisfied with the dominance of ICNIRP and ICES formed groups that were to prepare science evaluations that would counter-balance the dominating opinions of ICNIRP and ICES. The general idea of providing counter-balances and was good, but they (scientists) made similar mistake as ICNIRP and ICES/IEEE – they formed groups of scientists with the same opinions and the selection criteria are largely arbitrary and unknown. The composition of the groups most noted in news-media and by politicians, BioInitiative and ICEMS (International Committee on Electro-Magnetic Safety), clearly shows that the members have the same scientific opinions. No scientific challenge come from within the group, meaning no real scientific debate."

You can read the full article at: http://communities.washingtontimes.com/neighborhood/between-rock-and-hard-place/2012/jul/17/in-expert-we-trust-or-should-we/

In an uncertain world it's best to know about the potential dangers around us and take precautions to minimize certain risks. While we can't control everything we can take steps to protect ourselves from unnecessary exposure to unseen forces such as Electromagnetic Radiation.


Here you can learn more about the effects of EMF.

Smart Meter Radiation

Smart Meter Radiation

Cell Phones aren't the only dangerous electronics near you!
This article from Global Research.co tells the story.

Looming Health Crisis: Wireless Technology and the Toxification of America

by Prof. James F. Tracy

As a multitude of hazardous wireless technologies are deployed in homes, schools and workplaces, government officials and industry representatives continue to insist on their safety despite growing evidence to the contrary. A major health crisis looms that is only hastened through the extensive deployment of “smart grid” technology.

In October 2009 at Florida Power and Light’s (FPL) solar energy station President Barack Obama announced that $3.4 billion of the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act would be devoted to the country’s “smart energy grid” transition. Matching funds from the energy industry brought the total national Smart Grid investment to $8 billion. FPL was given $200 million of federal money to install 2.5 million “smart meters” on homes and businesses throughout the state.[1]

By now many residents in the United States and Canada have the smart meters installed on their dwellings. Each of these meters is equipped with an electronic cellular transmitter that uses powerful bursts of electromagnetic radiofrequency (RF) radiation to communicate with nearby meters that together form an interlocking network transferring detailed information on residents’ electrical usage back to the utility every few minutes or less. Such information can easily be used to determine individual patterns of behavior based on power consumption.


Image from: green.blogs.nytimes.com

The smart grid technology is being sold to the public as a way to “empower” individual energy consumers by allowing them to access information on their energy usage so that they may eventually save money by programming “smart” (i.e, wireless enabled) home appliances and equipment that will coordinate their operability with the smart meter to run when electrical rates are lowest. In other words, a broader plan behind smart grid technology involves a tiered rate system for electricity consumption that will be set by the utility to which customers will have no choice but to conform.

Because of power companies’ stealth rollout of smart meters a large majority of the public still remains unaware of the dangers they pose to human health. This remains the case even though states such as Maine have adopted an "opt out" provision for their citizens. The devices have not been safety-tested by Underwriters Laboratory and thus lack the UL approval customary for most electronics. Further, power customers are typically told by their utilities that the smart meter only communicates with the power company “a few times per day” to transmit information on individual household energy usage. However, when individuals obtained the necessary equipment to do their own testing they found the meters were emitting bursts of RF radiation throughout the home far more intense than a cell phone call every minute or less.

More at:http://www.globalresearch.ca/index.php?context=va&aid=31816

The Smart Meter Radiation that is being emitted on a daily basis in and around your home is a source of concern. These grids are being set up all around the world and if you don't have one on your home now there is likely to be one there soon. These power companies don't care about your constitutional rights. They only care about money. Get informed about the EMF radiation that is being brought into your life!