>
> Here is the phone line option instead of having a radiation emitter.
> Maybe the technology is available in other areas.
> Andrew
>
>
>
> http://www.progress-energy.com/custservice/carres/totalmeter/index.asp
>
>    
>
> You can recieve more information about this program today by calling
> Progress Energy Carolinas at 1-800-452-2777.
>
> TotalMeter Program allows the company to read your electric meter
> remotely. With this new technology, no one needs to visit your home
> each month to record your energy usage. That means you don't have to
> remember to contain your dog or unlock your gate for your meter reader.
> And you may pick the monthly meter reading day most convenient for you.
>
> TotalMeters communicate with Progress Energy through your telephone
> line. The phone junction box must be within 10 feet of the meter. If
> not, you may choose the wireless option discussed later, or you can
> extend the telephone line, at your cost, to within 10 feet of the meter
> before sending in your enrollment. Your TotalMeter will dial into
> Progress Energy on a toll-free line between midnight and 6 a.m. on a
> monthly meter reading day you select. If you attempt to make a call, or
> someone calls you during the data transmission, the meter will hang up
> and allow your call to go through.
>
> The automated meters in this program also include surge suppressors
> that protect your phone lines from damage.
>
> The privacy, security and convenience of this program are available for
> just $5.10 per month for a residential address. If you do not want the
> meter to use your phone line and instead elect to use a wireless
> communication tool charges are $15.90 per month for residential
> accounts.
>
> To participate in the TotalMeter Program, you must sign up for a
> two-year commitment and you may be subject to a $50 termination fee if
> you choose to leave the program before the end of the two years. Please
> note that Progress Energy also retains the right to access the meter
> and other facilities at your property to install and repair equipment
> whenever necessary.
>