Latest news with #AdvancedMeteringInfrastructure
India Gazette
18 hours ago
- Business
- India Gazette
Karnataka: BESCOM makes smart meters mandatory for new, temporary connections in rural areas from July 1
Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], June 28 (ANI): Starting from July 1, the Bengaluru Electricity Supply Company (BESCOM) has made it mandatory for all new and temporary electricity connections in rural areas under its jurisdiction to have smart meter installations, as mandated by the Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC). According to an official statement from the company, smart meter deployment in the urban areas of BESCOM's jurisdiction, including Bengaluru city, commenced on February 15, 2025. With this latest directive, the initiative is now being extended to BESCOM's rural regions also. Applicants for new or temporary electricity connections can purchase smart meters from BESCOM-authorised outlets and proceed with connection formalities, according to the statement. 'KERC had issued guidelines on smart meter implementation on March 6, 2024, and installations have since been carried out in phases,' the release added. Smart meters, which differ from traditional models, are equipped with a GPRS/RF-based communication system for data collection and offer server and cloud connectivity. They utilise Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) technology, which enables direct communication between consumers and BESCOM by gathering electricity usage data. Users can monitor real-time electricity usage, voltage, and power factor through a mobile app and access recharge options. The release stated that people can make advance payments and recharge for their desired duration, allowing them to use electricity as needed. During a power outage, electricity can be restored immediately upon payment of the bill. BESCOM is also set to launch a digital portal aimed at enhancing transparency and efficiency in the consumer grievance redressal process, as announced by N Sivashankar, Managing Director of BESCOM, in May. The MD was addressing a workshop organised jointly by the Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC) and BESCOM, or the office bearers and members of the Consumer Grievance Redressal Forum (CGRF) at the KEB Engineers Association Hall. 'To strengthen consumer rights and improve accountability, a dedicated digital platform is being developed for managing consumer complaints. The Chief General Manager of Corporate Affairs has been entrusted with overseeing the grievance redressal process,' Sivashankar said. He added that, as directed by the KERC Chairman, CGRFS has been constituted at the district level, comprising a Superintendent Engineer, an Executive Engineer, and independent members. (ANI)
Hindustan Times
21 hours ago
- Business
- Hindustan Times
Bengaluru electricity board makes smart meters mandatory for new rural connections from July 1
Starting July 1, the Bengaluru Electricity Supply Company (BESCOM) will enforce a new rule mandating smart meter installations for all new and temporary electricity connections in rural areas under its jurisdiction. The move follows directives from the Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC), aimed at modernising the power distribution system across the state. Bengaluru electricity board makes smart meters mandatory for new rural connections from July 1 Also Read - Bengaluru to get new stadium with 60,000 seating capacity, says DK Shivakumar. More details According to a statement released by BESCOM, the initiative to roll out smart meters began in Bengaluru and other urban areas under its control on February 15, 2025. With this latest announcement, the utility is now expanding the programme to cover its rural regions as well. Consumers applying for new or short-term electricity connections in rural areas will be required to purchase smart meters from BESCOM-authorised outlets before completing the connection process. The company clarified that this shift aligns with KERC's official guidelines issued on March 6, 2024, and that smart meter implementation has been proceeding in a phased manner since then. Also Read - Safety scare: Vande Bharat Express to Bengaluru halts due to 'hot axle'. What is it and how it happens What are smart meters? Unlike conventional meters, smart meters come equipped with GPRS or RF-based communication systems, enabling them to transmit real-time usage data through cloud and server connections. Powered by Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI), the devices allow seamless two-way communication between BESCOM and consumers. Smart meters also offer significant advantages for end users. Through a dedicated mobile application, consumers can track their electricity usage, voltage levels, and power factor in real time. Prepaid functionalities allow users to recharge for a specific duration, providing greater control over consumption. In case of disconnection due to non-payment, power can be instantly restored upon bill settlement. Additionally, BESCOM is gearing up to introduce a new digital platform to improve transparency and responsiveness in handling consumer complaints. This portal, aimed at strengthening the grievance redressal system, was first announced in May by BESCOM Managing Director N Sivashankar during a workshop held in collaboration with KERC and members of the Consumer Grievance Redressal Forum (CGRF) at the KEB Engineers Association Hall.
The Hindu
a day ago
- Business
- The Hindu
Smart meters mandatory for new and temporary connections from July 1
Starting July 1, all new and temporary electricity connections in rural areas under the jurisdiction of the Bangalore Electricity Supply Company (Bescom) will require smart meter installation as mandated by the Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC). According to a release, smart meter deployment in urban areas under the Bescom jurisdiction, including Bengaluru city, began on February 15 this year. With this latest directive, the initiative is now being extended to rural regions under the power utility. Applicants for new or temporary electricity connections can purchase smart meters from Bescom-authorised outlets and proceed with connection formalities, the release stated. KERC issued guidelines on smart meter implementation on March 6 last year, and installations have since been carried out in phases, it added. Features As per the release, smart meters, which differ from traditional models, are equipped with a GPRS/RF-based communication system for data collection and offer server and cloud connectivity. 'Utilising Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) technology, these meters enable direct communication between consumers and Bescom by gathering electricity usage data. Users can monitor real-time electricity usage, voltage, and power factor through a mobile app and access recharge options. Consumers can make advance payments and recharge for their desired duration, allowing them to use electricity as needed. In a power outage, electricity can be restored immediately upon bill payment,' the release said.
Express Tribune
2 days ago
- Business
- Express Tribune
SCO cooperation in energy sought
The minister invited international partners to invest in the nationwide rollout of Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI), estimating a $3 billion need to serve over 30 million consumers. PHOTO: File Listen to article Federal Minister for Energy (Power Division) Sardar Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari on Thursday virtually addressed the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Energy Ministers Conference, where he outlined Pakistan's vision for a clean, secure, and collaborative energy future. Speaking under the theme "Integrate Innovation for Energy Future," Leghari stressed the urgent need for regional cooperation, technological advancement, and policy reforms to confront global energy challenges. According to an official statement from the Ministry of Energy (Power Division), the minister highlighted Pakistan's ongoing energy sector transformation, underscoring the shift from short-term fixes to long-term structural reforms in the energy sector. He pointed to the establishment of several new institutions — such as the Power Planning & Monitoring Company (PPMC), Energy Infrastructure Development and Management Company (EIDMC), National Grid Company (NGC), and Independent System and Market Operator (ISMO) — as a foundation for improved governance, modernisation of the grid, and promoting transparent market operations. Leghari reaffirmed Pakistan's clean energy targets, reiterating the government's commitment to reaching 60% renewable energy and 30% electric vehicle penetration by 2030. He outlined initiatives such as the deployment of smart meters, enhancement of operational efficiency through data-driven systems, and the launch of a dedicated Research & Development (R&D) Secretariat to encourage local innovation and technology transfer. Underscoring Pakistan's geographical position as a regional energy bridge between Central Asia, South Asia, and the Gulf, Leghari called for greater cross-border electricity trade, investment in shared infrastructure, and the creation of joint security frameworks for energy systems. He stressed the importance of completing the CASA-1000 project and urged Afghanistan to fully participate as both a transit and offtake country to support regional energy integration and stability. To strengthen collaboration under the SCO framework, Leghari proposed five initiatives: the creation of an SCO Secretariat for Energy Innovation and R&D Collaboration, an Energy Innovation Fellowship Programme for young researchers, joint demonstration sites in Pakistan for renewable and smart grid technologies, a web-based Energy Cooperation Dashboard for project tracking, and a Project Prioritisation Committee to focus on high-impact initiatives. Looking ahead, the minister announced Pakistan's upcoming energy infrastructure investment plan, which will offer international partners bankable opportunities, supported by promising a transparent and investor-friendly environment. He invited international partners to invest in the nationwide rollout of Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI), estimating a $3 billion need to serve over 30 million consumers. "Pakistan is not only seeking investment," Leghari said, "we are offering long-term partnerships built on trust, innovation, and mutual benefit. We are ready to work with all SCO member states to turn our shared energy goals into practical solutions that benefit our people and our region."
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Business Standard
18-06-2025
- Business
- Business Standard
Annual tech spend of utilities sector to reach ₹32,500 cr by 2027
Narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT) is emerging as the preferred connectivity choice for Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI), supported by a projected rise in India's utilities sector technology spend to ₹32,500 crore by 2027, according to a white paper released by data and market intelligence major IDC and backed by Airtel Business. The sector's spending has been rising at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 17.7 per cent since 2022, when it stood at ₹14,500 crore. This surge in investment underscores the sector's commitment to digitalisation, seen as crucial to tackling persistent high aggregate technical and commercial (AT&C) losses and operational inefficiencies. While India's AT&C losses fell to 15.4 per cent in FY23, this remains nearly double the global average of 8–9 per cent, the paper noted. The government's Smart Meter National Programme (SMNP) aims to reduce AT&C losses to 12–15 per cent by 2025. This target is based on replacing 250 million conventional electricity meters with AMI systems to improve the financial and operational performance of power distribution companies. However, while over 222.4 million meters have been sanctioned for conversion under the National Smart Grid Mission (NSGM), only 20.85 million — around 9 per cent — had been converted as of February, the paper highlighted. The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to a network of physical objects embedded with sensors, software, and other technologies that enable them to connect and exchange data with other devices and systems over the internet. These devices range from everyday household items such as Wi-Fi routers, smartwatches, and Bluetooth devices to smart fridges, LED lighting, RFID tags, and sophisticated industrial equipment. NB-IoT, a cellular-based connectivity technology, offers wide coverage and low power consumption, making it ideal for large-scale smart metering deployments. Cellular connections (including NB-IoT) in the utilities segment are expected to grow at a CAGR of 25.6 per cent during the 2023–2027 period. With a broad portfolio of IoT offerings, Airtel Business provides a scalable foundation for connected devices, including connectivity options such as NB-IoT, 5G, 4G, and 2G, along with applications like head-end systems, meter data management, and prepaid billing hosted on Airtel Cloud. In partnership with Airtel, Secure Meters has successfully deployed 1.7 million NB-IoT smart meters across Bihar. Airtel's IoTHub serves as a central platform for managing IoT deployments, enabling meter life-cycle management, data visualisation, and analytics. In 2023, Airtel became the first Information and Communications Technology (ICT) service provider in India to connect over 20 million devices through its IoT solutions. In the smart utilities domain, Airtel offers solutions that go beyond connectivity—supporting AMI service providers with end-to-end system uptime tracking and custom-built tools to assess the feasibility of large-scale deployments. The company has pitched these integrated solutions to utilities across the country.
