Smart meter investigation hits more delays

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- The launch of an independent investigation into PG&E's new smart meters may be delayed again.

The California Public Utilities Commission says its negotiations with a contractor have hit a snag. The commission has been saying since late December that it expected to have an independent investigator hired in a matter of weeks.

Thursday, it confirmed that a contractor has been selected, but that the potential hire is asking for new provisions in the contract.

The investigation is expected to take about 6 months.

In the meantime, PG&E continues to install the meters throughout California.

The Utility Reform Network had asked for a moratorium on the meters until the investigation can be completed.

People who have had them installed already have complained they are driving their utility bills up.

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