Topic: Smart Water

Austin Water is replacing 250,000 analog water meters with "smart meters" that transmit data wirelessly. While officials claim the system is secure from hacking due to encryption, the primary concern raised is the ability for authorities to track real-time usage patterns. Customers who opt out of the smart meter program are required to pay a $75 one-time fee and a $10 monthly surcharge to cover manual meter reading costs.

The California Water Resources Control Board is tasked with replacing 50 million square feet of lawns with drought-tolerant landscapes and implementing the Water Energy Technology (WET) program. New regulations prohibit the use of potable water for ornamental turf and encourage the use of "smart meters" to monitor residential water consumption.

A massive power outage in the northern Netherlands reveals the vulnerability of a cashless society, as citizens were unable to purchase fuel or groceries without electronic payments. In Ireland, the ongoing "water debacle" continues as citizens protest the installation of smart meters and new laws allowing the government to deduct water charges directly from bank accounts.

First Lady Michelle Obama and Eva Longoria are promoting a hydration initiative that critics label a commercial for bottled water companies like PepsiCo and Coca-Cola. The marketing for the drive was handled by major advertising firms rather than promoting tap water. The conversation shifts to home filtration, specifically the high-end Berkey gravity water filter, which is noted for removing fluoride and arsenic.

John Dvorak describes his electricity bill doubling to $1,000 after the installation of a wireless smart meter. The hosts discuss the "scam" of outsourcing utility collection to third parties. Adam Curry notes he is being charged a "sewer tax" based on the number of days it rains, effectively taxing rainwater.

Residents in Atlanta and other U.S. cities report astronomical water bills, some exceeding $10,000, following the installation of "smart" meters. Despite city inspectors finding no leaks, residents are held responsible for the charges. The hosts characterize the smart meter rollout as a coordinated scam by private companies to overcharge consumers through automated collection systems.

Cities are replacing traditional water meters with automated wireless versions that allow utilities to monitor usage in detail and shut off service remotely. VSI Meter Services is identified as a major contractor for these "smart grid" initiatives. The hosts express concern over the loss of privacy and encourage tech-savvy listeners to investigate ways to jam or hack the devices.

The City of Toronto is implementing a mandatory automated water meter program using technology from Alclara. The hosts warn that these meters allow for two-way communication, enabling the city to remotely shut off a resident's water supply without entering the home. The system operates on a 450 MHz frequency with a one-mile range.