ANNAPOLIS, Md. — Maryland’s Public Service Commission has decided ratepayers of three utilities can potentially opt-out of installing smart meters.

The PSC issued an order on Monday that calls for additional proceedings to determine a preferred course.

Regulators say that could be allowing customers to retain their current analog meter. They also say it could require all customers to receive a smart meter installed to operate in a radio frequency free or near radio frequency free manner.

The PSC says ratepayers will have to bear the appropriate costs, if they exercise the option.

The order means customers of Potomac Electric Power Company, Baltimore Gas and Electric Company and Southern Maryland Electric Cooperative Inc. who have indicated they don’t want a smart meter will not have to take one at this time.

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