Terry MacLean of Stanhope, P.E.I., faced a situation where his propane tank, situated close to his home, needed to be relocated following communication from Maritime Electric. The electric company advised MacLean that the proximity of the tank to an electrical meter posed a risk of service interruption unless the issue was rectified. In response, MacLean incurred expenses of approximately $1,400 to facilitate the relocation, expressing discontent with the lack of compensation for the move. Maritime Electric also proposed upgrading MacLean’s meter to a smart meter, part of a broader initiative affecting around 90,000 customers to monitor energy consumption.
Maritime Electric cited safety regulations mandating a specific distance between meters and propane tanks, emphasizing the need for compliance to prevent potential hazards. The utility encouraged customers with concerns to engage with their representatives. According to a provincial statement, the installation of new smart meters mandates a minimum three-meter separation from propane tanks due to safety considerations, contrasting with previous guidelines allowing a three-foot distance from analog meters.
MacLean acknowledged the necessity of relocating the propane tank in line with safety standards but expressed disappointment over the perceived lack of support from Maritime Electric. He noted that other individuals had also faced similar requirements to relocate their tanks, indicating a common issue among customers. The need to maintain a safe distance between the propane tank and the meter was underscored by MacLean, reflecting a shared sentiment among affected parties.