Notice to Kahnawà:ke regarding Hydro-Québec next generation meters

11/25/2014

The Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke (MCK) wishes to remind Kahnawa’kehró:non that Hydro-Québec is in the process of changing their power consumption measurement devices to more precise digital technology. The process involves installing new next generation ‘smart meters’ to all its customers throughout the province, Kahnawà:ke included. As the installation occurs on private properties, this issue is between Hydro-Québec and each home owner. 

The MCK reminds the community that this is not an MCK initiative. This information is being made available because several Kahnawa’kehró:non have contacted the MCK for clarification. Anyone with questions should contact Hydro-Québec directly.

Hydro-Québec did make a presentation on the new technology to Chief & Council several weeks ago; at that time they were instructed to consult the Community on the upcoming changes, inform home owners on the installation and to make themselves available to answer questions. The MCK was informed by Hydro-Québec that the new meters are approved by the Québec Energy Board and are compliant with safety guidelines issued by Health Canada.

The MCK was also informed that Customers have been given the option to ‘opt out’ of having the new meters be read automatically via a small transmitter located within the device. Should the customer opt out, they would receive a next generation ‘smart meter’ that has to be read manually. There is an installation cost and monthly fee for this option.