The British Columbia Utilities Commission (BCUC) has granted FortisBC conditional approval to install smart meters.
The approval hinges on FortisBC providing the BCUC with a detailed opt-out plan for its customers by November 1.
The BCUC decision came in a more than 200-page report released July 23.
"The BCUC's decision is lengthy and we have a responsibility to our customers to review it before making a commitment to moving forward with the project," read a statement on FortisBC's website.
"We believe advanced meters are an accurate, reliable and safe way to deliver energy. Advanced meters will provide a range of benefits to our customers, including economic benefits and safety improvements for utility workers, first responders and the general public. Our focus is to deliver energy safely and reliably at the lowest reasonable cost."
According to the decision, the approved capital budget for the smart meters is nearly $60 million. Over a span of 20 years, the smart meters are expected to reduce operating and theft costs by $13.9 million cumulatively.
