Amid growing controversy over the installation of smart prepaid electricity meters in several states, the Central Government has issued a major clarification, stating that the meters are not mandatory for consumers.
Union Power Minister Manohar Lal Khattar made the announcement in the Lok Sabha while responding to supplementary questions during Question Hour. His statement comes at a time when concerns were rising across the country that prepaid smart meters might be imposed compulsorily on households.
Many consumers had alleged that governments were forcing the installation of smart meters and claimed that electricity bills increased after the new systems were introduced. Addressing these concerns, Khattar clarified that consumers will not be forced to adopt prepaid smart electricity meters and that the system remains completely optional.
The minister said consumers are free to choose whether they want to switch to prepaid smart meters based on their convenience. He added that the technology can benefit consumers, state governments, and electricity distribution companies (DISCOMs).
According to the government, prepaid smart meters help make electricity consumption more transparent and manageable. Under the system, consumers can recharge their electricity usage in advance, allowing better control over expenses and preventing unexpected bills.
The technology also reduces billing errors and provides real-time data on electricity consumption. For power distribution companies, smart meters help reduce pending dues and improve revenue collection efficiency.
The clarification from the Centre has brought relief to many consumers who feared compulsory implementation of prepaid smart meters nationwide, while discussions on the benefits and challenges of the system continue across states.
