To the Editor:
The ongoing discussions about electricity rates in Webster City can be easily resolved in the near-term by installing SmartMeters which continuously monitor and record both usage and time of use.
If the SmartMeters are specified to include providing real-time data to the home-owner, apartment renter and business owner, everyone benefits because real-time data allows individuals to actively control their electricity use. Real-time data allows consumers to actively manage their electricity use to minimize their bill. Properly equipped meters can deliver use data to a home computer or a smart-phone via a wireless connection (such as Bluetooth, Zigbee, etc.). Contrary to the comments by the city manager in the last issue of "City Scene," smart-electric meters are both available and cost-effective today. REC's across the state are upgrading their systems to SmartMeters, including Prairie Energy which serves much of the area surrounding Webster City. Prairie Energy expects to finish its upgrade this year.
Lon Crosby
Webster City