XCEL Energy smart meter opt out?

[bellavite1]

I received notice that my XCEL meter in Wheatridge will be switched to a smart meter.
I can opt out, but that will result in additional monthly charges:
https://xcelenergycommunities.com/si...esSheet-p1.pdf
So, I am debating what to do...
If I understand correctly the Ft Collins area has seen this a while ago.
What is your experience?
Have you seen your bills skyrocket after the switch?
Would I be better off staying with my non-smart meter and paying the additional charges?

[Sawin]

Subscribed. I’d like to know from someone’s firsthand experience too.

[XJ]

Let's see the fine print...

[hollohas]

So, they've been asking people to switch to smart meter's for years. Offering tiny incentives to do so. Apparently no one took them up on their BS offer to remotely turn off our AC when it's hot outside so they will fine you for not switching?

Ugh.

[Bailey Guns]

We were required by IREA to switch over at our house in Bailey several years ago...2012 or 2013 ish. Our bill more than doubled for 3 months. Then it dropped slightly but was significantly higher than it had been historically.

[kidicarus13]

The Saver's Switch program allows Xcel Energy by remote control to cycle central air conditioner compressor units on and off at 15 to 20-minute intervals while the fan stays on circulating previously cooled air.

Do what you want but I'll be thinking about you on those 100? days when you've already spent your couple dollar savings on Starbucks and you think your AC has $hite the bed because it's so hot in your house.

Looks like I am confusing a Smart Meter with a Saver's Switch.

[BushMasterBoy]

I have a smart meter. No problems. I believe it is just internet over the power lines. They send a high frequency signal along the grid. I do believe they are able to shut off power remotely, usually if they don't get paid. I like that I don't have some power company employee in my back yard reading a meter. It is Black Hills power co. Been like this for over 10 years. I guess technically, they can tell when you turn on heavy draw appliances. I have three generators as backup. I originally had the old dumb meter. Not sure why someone would opt out. The water company added smart meters a few years before the power company. The water meters have to be scanned by a guy in a truck.

[bellavite1]

Edit: after reading more carefully, they will change your meter anyway, you cannot stay with the same actual meter.
You only get a choice between a new "dumb" meter (with an additional monthly fee to go with it) or the new smart meter.
Either way chances are your bill will be different than what you are used to...

[bellavite1]

I have a smart meter. No problems. I believe it is just internet over the power lines. They send a high frequency signal along the grid. I do believe they are able to shut off power remotely, usually if they don't get paid. I like that I don't have some power company employee in my back yard reading a meter. It is Black Hills power co. Been like this for over 10 years. I guess technically, they can tell when you turn on heavy draw appliances. I have three generators as backup. I originally had the old dumb meter. Not sure why someone would opt out. The water company added smart meters a few years before the power company. The water meters have to be scanned by a guy in a truck.

Any significant changes to your bill?

[hollohas]

I was confusing the savers switch too.

The smart meters also have the ability to monitor WHEN you use the electricity you use. Demand response. That way they can charge you higher rates when you're using electricity during high demand periods. Like in the evening when you are actually home.