On April 25, the day that protests to Pacific Gas & Electric’s “smart” meter opt out program were filed at the California Public Utilities Commission, the utility announced that those who object to installations can join a list. The next day, Marin County and the Town of Fairfax signed a petition to the CPUC objecting to the cost of PG&E’s opt-out plan. PG&E estimates the costs of meter opt-outs will total $113.5 million over two years, assuming 145,800 elect to forego wireless meters. Utility costs are based on assuming: -$125/one-time/household. -$10.69/month/household, meter reading. -$2,200 for radio communications relay devices on the grid as needed; -$5 million systemwide for technical support and design; and -$18 million systemwide for customer communications. At the customer end, PG&E proposes to charge those who opt for electromechanical meters either $135, with a $20 monthly charge, or $217, with a monthly charge of $14. PG&E plans to capitalize any alternative investments. Capitalization would earn the utility $38.29 million, if approved, according to Marcel Hawiger, The Utility Reform Network attorney. Like TURN, others who filed protests promised to explore price issues. Mendocino County also promised to investigate privacy and environmental impacts, as well as health issues.