What are Smart Meters?
Smartmeters, the latest devices used for measuring utility consumption, including electricity, water, and gas, are being installed nationwide in residential and commercial buildings. These meters, provided by utility companies and governments, replace the traditional analogue meters with digital “smart” meters.
It is important to note that many individuals are unaware of the switch from analogue to smart meters or the ongoing process of installation. While analogue meters have been used for several decades, the new smart meters rely on digital technology.
One significant concern regarding smart meters is their emission of radio-frequency radiation (RFR). This type of electromagnetic exposure is biologically active and can be absorbed by the human body. The wireless communication networks used by smart meters to communicate with other devices and utility providers contribute to the overall density of manmade pulsed RFR radiation in both outdoor and indoor environments.
It is worth noting that the radiation emitted by smart meters is similar to that generated by cell phones, known as radiofrequency radiation. Moreover, most smart meters continuously emit strong pulses of RFR throughout the day, contrary to utility providers’ claims of low exposure levels. These short bursts of radiation can be quite powerful.
Wireless smart meters typically produce high levels of pulsed RF/microwaves in very short durations. On average, they emit these millisecond-long bursts approximately 9,600 times a day, with a maximum of 190,000 daily transmissions. The peak level emission is two and a half times higher than the stated safety signal, as acknowledged by California utility Pacific Gas & Electric during discussions with the State’s Public Utilities Commission. In other words, smart meters can emit an average of 1,900 transmissions in a 24-hour period.