Smart meters in Maine get thumbs up in study

AUGUSTA — Wireless energy meters being tested by a Maine company are getting high marks in a government study.

The so-called smart meters are being put through their paces by the Central Maine Power Company. The new meters use wireless technology to cut costs and track energy usage online.

The project by the Maine company was one of 100 reviewed by the U.S. Department of Energy, which has helped fund the nationwide initiative. One proposal is that the meters be used to track power outages.

Not everyone likes the idea of wireless technology at home despite favorable reviews. Some worry the wireless signals are a health hazard similar to cell phones.