NORWAY — Town Manager David Holt has received word that the installation of  smart meters — they transmit information on electricity use in homes and businesses to and from Central Maine Power Co. — has been completed in town.

The installation began last summer but not before the state Public Utilities Commission mandated that CMP send opt-out letters to customers that allowed them to refuse installation or to modify the type of smart meter installed. The modification requires a meter reader to continue to check the power usage each month.

CMP said that with this method, they wouldn’t be able to see hourly usage, as with the fully functional smart meter, but the company could turn power on and off without sending an employee to the home.

For customers who opted out of smart meters, there was a one-time $40 fee and a $12 monthly fee.

Some residents serviced by CMP had expressed concern about the smart meters being hazardous. Conserns were also expressed about the cyber security of wirelessly connected meters.

According to information sent from CMP to Holt, CMP’s customers will be able to view detailed information about their energy use through the company’s website later this year.

According to the letter CMP invested more than $500 million in 2011 in advanced meter infrastructure and other grid improvements, and will spend nearly as much again in 2012. “The investments are creating thousands of jobs for the Maine economy, while ensuring long-term grid reliability and capacity for growth,” the company said.

Residents who are looking for additional information about smart meters can visit the CMP website at www.cmpco.com/smartmeter.

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