AUGUSTA — Some Maine residents say they started experiencing headaches and other health concerns after “smart meters” were installed at their homes.

Maine’s Public Utilities Commission held a public hearing on Wednesday at the University of Maine at Augusta. The hearing is part of an investigation the commission launched into health risks of Central Maine Power’s smart meters.

More than 6,000 smart meters have been installed in Maine while 8,000 have opted out.

CMP says the meters have been proven safe. It says the meters provide residents detailed information about their electricity usage, allowing them to cut back and save money.

Donna Giroux of Kennebunk says she became extremely ill and experienced facial burning, weakness and other cognitive and neurological effects after smart meters were installed in her neighborhood.