AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 5; Title 6; Title 7; Title 8; Title 65 and Title 68, relative to utility metering.
Impact
The anticipated impact of HB 2370 on state laws is significant, as it introduces a new paradigm regarding customer consent in utility service provision. By requiring written consent prior to the installation of smart meters—devices often associated with concerns about privacy and data collection—the bill empowers property owners, allowing them to opt for traditional analog meters if they prefer. Consequently, this could slow the transition to smart metering technology that many utilities seek to implement for efficiency and operational improvements.
Summary
House Bill 2370 aims to amend various titles in the Tennessee Code Annotated concerning utility metering. The bill introduces a requirement that utilities must obtain written consent from property owners before installing smart meters on either residential or commercial properties. In the absence of consent, utilities are mandated to offer the installation of an analog meter instead. Furthermore, if a smart meter was previously installed, utilities must confirm that the current property owner consents to continue its use. This measure reflects growing concerns regarding customer autonomy and preferences over metering technologies used on their properties.
Contention
Notably, HB 2370 may evoke contention among stakeholders, particularly among utility companies that advocate for the efficiency and benefits of smart meters. Opponents of the bill may argue that the requirement for consent could hinder the deployment of smart meters and the operational efficiencies they can provide. Additionally, the stipulation that no additional fees may be charged to property owners based on their decision could complicate utilities' cost structures and recovery mechanisms, which could be points of negotiation during discussions surrounding the bill.
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 5; Title 6; Title 7; Title 8; Title 12; Title 13; Title 54; Title 64; Title 65; Title 68 and Title 69, relative to utilities.
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 5; Title 6; Title 7; Title 8; Title 12; Title 13; Title 54; Title 64; Title 65; Title 68 and Title 69, relative to utilities.
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 6; Title 7; Title 9; Title 13; Title 47; Title 65 and Title 66, relative to net metering credits.
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 5; Title 6; Title 7; Title 8; Title 12; Title 13; Title 29; Title 54; Title 64; Title 65; Title 68 and Title 69, relative to municipal utilities.