4 days ago
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.
