Take Back Your Power: Investigating the “Smart” Grid 2014
Distributed by Passion River Films, 154 Mt. Bethel Rd., Warren, NJ 07059; 732-321-0711
Produced by Josh Del Sol
Directed by Josh Del Sol
DVD , color, 88 min.
College - General Adult
Technology, Sociology, Social Sciences, Communication, Health Sciences, Political Science, Law, Human Rights, Ethics, Business, Anthropology
Date Entered: 05/27/2015
Reviewed by Andrew Koval, MSLSDel Sol’s Take Back Your Power: Investigating the Smart Grid propagates the potential dangers of how electricity is disseminated through the use of Smart Meters. The film delves into the convoluted relationships that develop between private utility companies and all levels of government. It dramatically elaborates the documented trends of poor customer service, property damage and increased electrical bills from the utility companies. Most concerning are the cited adverse health effects originating from Smart Meter installation.
Unfortunately, Del Sol offers his audience a one-sided argument which may detract viewers. The films length may have been condensed to render a more concise and therefore more convincing argument. Still, the evidence presented reasonably suggests that Smart Meters are at best speculative in terms of their effect on human health and the actuality of their enhancing increased energy efficiency. Like content is found in the film The Value of Your Personal Data (2013) which also discusses the right to privacy. Del Sol’s piece is important viewing for civic groups and would be most appropriate for inclusion into the holdings of a public library.