Nagpur: Electricity consumers in the Nagpur and Wardha districts are set to become smarter with the installation of advanced smart prepaid meters by Mahavitaran (Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited). This initiative, offering a range of technological and economic benefits, is part of a broader plan to modernize the electricity supply system.
The deployment of these smart meters has already commenced in the employee colonies of Mahavitaran in Nagpur and Wardha. Following successful trials of the information exchange processes involving smart meters, gateways, and data centers, the project will extend to all electricity consumers in these districts. This initiative aligns with a nationwide mandate requiring the installation of smart prepaid meters for all electricity consumers across India. In Maharashtra alone, approximately 24.1 million low-tension category electricity consumers will receive these smart meters, excluding only agricultural pump connections.
The demand for electricity and new connections has been rising significantly. To ensure high-quality power supply and strengthen the distribution network, the Revised Distribution Sector Scheme will be implemented. As part of this, smart prepaid meters will be installed, providing consumers with control over their electricity usage and expenditure. These meters will be installed free of charge and replaced at no cost if they malfunction, ensuring no financial burden on consumers. The electricity tariffs set by the Maharashtra Electricity Regulatory Commission will continue to apply to smart prepaid meters.
Consumers will benefit from the ability to manage their electricity usage and budget effectively, helping to avoid unnecessary consumption and save money. Smart prepaid meters will offer convenient recharge options similar to mobile phone top-ups, available online from the comfort of one’s home. Users will receive daily updates on their electricity consumption, remaining balance, and notifications when the balance is low, enabling efficient financial planning.
Even if the recharge balance is exhausted, power supply will not be interrupted between 6 PM and 10 AM or on public holidays, thanks to the “happy hours” feature. Any electricity used during these times will be deducted once the recharge is completed.
Both online and offline recharge options will be available, ensuring that rural and urban consumers can continue using their preferred payment methods. A mobile app will provide daily updates on electricity usage, and notifications will be sent via SMS before the recharge balance runs out.
The adoption of smart meters will eliminate the need for manual meter readings, bill preparation, and distribution, streamlining the billing process to a simple recharge system. This will resolve common issues such as incorrect meter readings, erroneous bills, and the hassle of visiting offices for bill corrections. Monthly billing statements will be accessible via the Mahavitaran website and mobile app, allowing consumers to print them as needed.
