You can opt to have them read it or you read it.While it's their property, I believe I am lawfully leasing it and am current on my payments, and therefore I should have an expectation not to be bothered as long as it is being used in a lawful manner. A landlord is not authorized to enter a tenent's quarters without their permission, even though he/ she owns the property. A bank cannot take your car and do something to it just because they hold the lien on it while you are making payments. I would think this falls under the same category.
Periodically though they will want to read it.
You do not lease the meter.
The utility owns it.
Without it installed , you could go to the county well and do things the old fashion way.
They have a right to change the meter out.
You purchased or rented with the meter installed.
You have denied access and they noticed you of termination.
Once terminated , I bet you change your mind.
Pull up you drug operation and let them in , or take stem baths with rocks.