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The pros, cons of smart meters in Naperville

Naperville is weeks away from beginning to install so-called smart meters on 57,000 residences throughout the city. The meter change out is the first step in the city's $22 million Naperville Smart Grid Initiative.

While the city maintains the initiative is a safe upgrade to the city's $360 million electric network to provide more efficient, cost-effective and reliable service to customers, the plan has its critics.

Opponents say they are concerned about the long-term health risks associated with the wireless RF meters and the safety concerns associated with connecting to a wireless network.

The Daily Herald asked both sides to present their side of the story. Mark Curran, director of Naperville's electric utility, responded for the city. Jeff Perkins, an intellectual property attorney based in Lisle, responded for the opposition.

Pro: Smart grid provides more efficient and cost-effective electric service

Con: Expense, safety, security, privacy make meters bad choice

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