Patna: The Union Ministry of Power has directed the Bihar government to accelerate the installation of smart electricity meters across all consumer categories.
The ministry said electricity supply should be provided through smart meters conforming to relevant Indian standards in areas where communication networks are available. The prescribed timelines set by the Centre must also be followed.
Mandate Covers Prepaid And Postpaid Consumers
The Centre has clarified that the smart meter installation requirement does not depend on how consumers pay their electricity bills.
The provision therefore applies to both prepaid and postpaid electricity consumers, according to the Ministry of Power.
Consumers To Track Electricity Usage
Smart meters are intended to give consumers greater visibility over their electricity consumption and help them regulate their usage.
The ministry said the system would improve transparency in billing by enabling consumers to monitor their consumption more accurately.
Distribution Companies To Benefit
The Ministry of Power also said smart meters would improve the efficiency of electricity distribution companies.
More accurate billing and better monitoring of consumption are expected to help distribution companies manage electricity supply and billing more effectively.
9.2 Crore Smart Meters Installed
Bihar has around 21.1 Crore electricity consumers across the state. Smart meters have already been installed for approximately 9.2 Crore consumers.
The Centre has asked the state government to intensify the installation campaign while continuing to comply with existing rules and regulations.
