Govt Offers 2% Discount on Electricity Bills with Smart Meters, Pay Within 10 Days

The state government had to revise the process of replacing digital electricity meters with smart meters following public outcry. Initially planned as prepaid smart meters, they are now being shifted to a postpaid model. Additionally, the government is considering offering a 2% discount to users who make advance payments after the postpaid system is implemented. This decision might be announced in the upcoming budget session. While the installation of smart meters is ongoing across the state, challenges faced in Vadodara led to certain modifications. To ease the process for small electricity consumers, the prepaid billing system has been changed to postpaid, requiring bills to be paid within 10 days after a month of usage.

Old and Smart Meters Installed to Address Concerns

To address complaints of higher bills with smart meters, around 300 check meters have been installed in central Gujarat alone. A check meter involves installing both a smart meter and an old meter to compare the billing. If both meters show consistent readings, it assures consumers about the accuracy of smart meters.

No Higher Billing: Officials

Numerous complaints were reported from various locations where smart meters replaced old ones, alleging higher bills. However, electricity department officials clarified that smart meter billing is based strictly on the units consumed and the standard rate. There is no increase in billing due to the new meters.

Real-Time Usage Data Every 30 Minutes

Unlike digital meters, which require manual readings, smart meters provide real-time data every 30 minutes. Consumers can monitor their electricity usage and potential bills using an app linked to the smart meter. This app allows users to download data and stay updated on their consumption patterns.