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DTE's Smart Meters Raising Concerns Across Metro Detroit

LIVONIA (WWJ) - Smart meters. They are the new digital device that are coming to neighborhoods across metro Detroit... but not everyone is pleased with the service that measures your homes energy consumption..

In Livonia this weekend, more then 25 residents spoke out at the city library about why they think smart meters are an invasion of privacy.

"It's money, I think it's super control - because everything you buy is going to have a chip in it," said resident Pauline Holeton. "Stove, refrigerator, you hear about these energy appliances - Home Depot and Lowe's I think they are selling water heaters with chips in it - so that's all getting ready for your water, gas and electricty."

She also spoke to those in attendance about health issues she believes are related to having the meters.

"People have health affects, I'm really concerned about the health affects," said Holeton. "People's insulin pumps and people who have defibulators, children with autism, people with epilipsy."

DTE says smart meters are safe but residents involved in the program can opt out by paying a $67 fee, plus a $10 monthly charge.

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