DHBVN Drives Smart Meter Adoption with 5% Bill Rebate in Gurgaon and Faridabad
In a significant push to modernize electricity infrastructure, the Dakshin Haryana Bijli Vitran Nigam (DHBVN) is actively encouraging consumers in Gurgaon and Faridabad to transition from traditional postpaid billing to prepaid smart metering systems. The utility is offering a compelling 5% rebate on electricity bills as an incentive for making the switch. This initiative aligns with the nationwide Smart Meter Fortnight campaign, observed from February 9 to February 23, which aims to raise awareness about the benefits of smart metering technology.
Mobile App Central to Smart Meter Management
DHBVN is promoting its dedicated Smart Meter DHBVN mobile application, available for download on both the Google Play Store and Apple iOS Store. The app serves as a comprehensive tool for users to:
- Monitor daily power consumption in real-time
- Track prepaid credit balance and receive low-balance alerts
- Register complaints related to smart meter functionality
- Avoid sudden disconnections through timely notifications
Despite these features, adoption remains modest, with only approximately 9,300 consumers currently using the app. DHBVN officials attribute this slow uptake to consumer unfamiliarity with the new system and are urging more households to download the application for enhanced control over their electricity usage.
Extensive Smart Meter Deployment Across Key Areas
DHBVN spokesperson Sanjay Chugh revealed that approximately 3.7 lakh smart meters have been installed so far across Gurgaon and Faridabad. He emphasized, "If consumers in these two cities convert their electricity connection from postpaid to prepaid billing mode, they will get the discount on electricity bills."
The prepaid option is currently available in numerous sectors and localities, including:
- Sectors 14, 17, 21, 23, 23A, 24, 25, 31, 32, 39, 40, and 43
- Udyog Vihar phases 1-3
- Palam Vihar
- DLF phases 1-5
- Sushant Lok phase 1 and surrounding areas
Residents in these areas can now opt for a prepaid recharge system similar to mobile phone top-ups, providing greater flexibility and control over their electricity expenses.
Consumer-Friendly Features and Support Mechanisms
The prepaid smart metering system introduces several consumer-centric features designed to improve the electricity management experience:
- Automatic disconnection prevention: Power supply will not be cut off on public holidays or non-working days, even if the balance runs low
- Multiple payment options: Consumers can recharge their accounts both online and offline
- Proactive alerts: Users receive multiple notifications as their balance decreases, providing ample opportunity to recharge before disconnection
- 24/7 support: Dedicated helpline numbers 1912 and 1800-180-4334 are available for assistance
A DHBVN official explained the broader benefits: "The prepaid system would reduce billing disputes and allow consumers to monitor and regulate their electricity usage more efficiently. They can track daily consumption, get reminders for low balance and pay only for what they use."
Streamlined Transition Process for Consumers
To switch to the prepaid smart metering system, consumers need to follow a straightforward process:
- Download the Smart Meter DHBVN mobile application
- Enter their consumer number in the app
- Alternatively, seek assistance by calling the dedicated helpline numbers
The corporation has made a concerted appeal to consumers to adopt the prepaid billing system and utilize the mobile app for what they describe as "better control over electricity consumption." This initiative represents a significant step toward modernizing Haryana's electricity distribution network while empowering consumers with greater transparency and management capabilities over their power usage.
