These things operate on a mesh network. If my meter is not able to contact a cell directly, it will pass my information through a nearby meter, which forwards it further, either to a cell (if it has access) or on to other meters as needed.
It is possible to crack the data, which would give someone very detailed information about your comings and goings. In fact one could determine when you AND your neighbor are out, providing an ideal time to break into your home from the direction of that neighbor's house. No witnesses.
There's more, I suggest you look into the capabilities of IPv6 and this concept of "an internet of things." Don't forget to factor human nature into your pondering. If something has a potentially evil use, it is guaranteed that it will be put to that use. (in many cases the anti-social application is the FIRST use of a given technology, think nuclear fission)
I taught computer sciences for a brief time, and often found discussions concluding with "just because we can doesn't mean we should." I'm not particularly thrilled with the total surveillance grid the statists are erecting all around us.
"Smart meters" do not need some of the capabilities they are endowed with in order to be "smart," that is to do the job that is claimed of them.
I live in one of the greenest, crunchiest, granola-loving towns on the east coast. And I love it. But there are times when even I’m taken aback by local sentiment. The latest case in point is the flyer that appeared on my street calling for a wireless smart meter moratorium. The purpose of smart meters is to measure and report energy usage. More data helps utility companies better manage peak loads, which in turn has the potential to help conserve energy overall, and even save consumers money on their monthly bills.
There is apparently, however, a dark side to smart meters.
The flyer in my neighborhood warns of radiation, potential fires, interference with pacemakers, and (my favorite) the VIOLATION OF PRIVACY imposed on citizens forced to use smart meters.
I’m all in favor of rigorous radiation testing, but I also know that I don’t plan to sleep with my head pressed up against a smart meter. Potential fires? Maybe. But I could also end up with one of those from the citronella candles I light on my porch.
As for pacemaker interference, there are many sources of radio frequency signals today, which is why pacemakers manufacturers are required to test their devices for susceptibility to interference.
And then there’s the privacy matter. If you want to opt out of modern society, so be it. But it strikes me as a bit absurd to condemn the power company for collecting data on power usage — particularly when anyone sitting outside your home could tell just as easily as the power company when the lights are on.
I don’t mean to be flip, but creating more energy-efficient homes and a more sustainable power infrastructure are important issues. Let’s not let paranoia get in the way.
And for further reading on the subject, check out Charlie Osborne’s recent smart meter health round-up.
