PG&E Suspends Exec In SmartMeter Online Comment Flap

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) - Pacific Gas & Electric Co. has suspended an executive who admitted to using a false name to try to join an online group opposed to the utility's SmartMeters.

PG&E said Tuesday that SmartMeter program senior director William Devereaux has been placed on indefinite paid suspension.

PG&E spokesman Jeff Smith said Deveraux's behavior was inconsistent with the company's commitment to honesty and transparency.

PG&E is investigating whether other employees have attempted anything similar.

Devereaux last week tried to join a group concerned about the health effects of the wireless electricity and gas meters. He was caught when his real name appeared next to his e-mail address.

Devereaux has apologized, but said he was trying to better understand the arguments of SmartMeter opponents.

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