They should just have an Ethernet port. Especially for new build houses, where running an Ethernet cable from the meter to the router can be done during construction.
Most people have Internet access already, reading a meter doesn't take much bandwidth.
And it can be secure if done correctly. (I mean, it won't be done correctly, but it could be).
If people get worried about electrical safety, or about people tampering with the meter by sending out-of spec voltages/frequencies over the Ethernet cable, then 10 or 100Mbps fibre optic is a cheap alternative to a copper Ethernet cable.
The only problem with that is it makes the remote disconnect switch unusable. There's no way to turn it back on, since when it's off the Internet connection will be down.
But if this was really about reading meters, and not about installing a remote disconnect switch in every home, then Ethernet would be a good choice for many homes.
Even WiFi would work for many homes, and could be better when replacing an existing meter.