LUCKNOW: The National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL) has issued a written clarification stating that the Hi-Tech Test Laboratory of Madhyanchal Vidyut Vitran Nigam Limited (MVVNL), Lucknow, does not hold accreditation or an approved scope for testing smart meters under IS 16444 (Part 1 and Part 2). These standards govern smart prepaid meters.
Background of the Dispute
The clarification comes in the wake of a controversy surrounding a May 14 official statement from the MVVNL laboratory. In that statement, the facility claimed it was technically competent to conduct acceptance testing of smart meters with reference to IS 13779, IS 14697, and IS 16444. The lab also asserted that its NABL accreditation and calibrated testing facilities made it fully capable of carrying out such tests.
NABL's Response to Complaint
However, responding to a complaint filed by the Uttar Pradesh Rajya Vidyut Upbhokta Parishad (UPRVUP), NABL stated that testing under IS 16444 (Part 1 and Part 2) is not included within the accredited scope of the laboratory. This discrepancy has raised serious questions about the validity of the lab's claims.
“The consumer body has sought to probe the matter in detail, as the laboratory's written statement could create confusion regarding the actual scope of its accreditation,” said Avadhesh Kumar Verma, chairman of UPRVUP.
Regulatory Scrutiny
The matter is already under the scrutiny of the Uttar Pradesh Electricity Regulatory Commission (UPERC). On May 21, the commission issued a notice to the managing director of MVVNL, seeking clarification on allegations that smart prepaid meters were tested at the laboratory despite the absence of accreditation under IS 16444 standards. Sources indicate that MVVNL has yet to submit its response to the regulator.
“With NABL's clarification now on record and UPERC awaiting an explanation, pressure is mounting on the utility over the claims made regarding smart meter testing,” added Verma.
Next Steps
The consumer body is expected to pursue further investigation into the matter, as the laboratory's claims could have implications for the reliability of smart meter testing in the region. The utility may face additional regulatory action if it fails to provide a satisfactory explanation.
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About the Author
Arvind Chauhan: When he's not chasing stories, you’ll likely find him exploring food lanes, indulging in mutton delicacies and sundaes. He is a journalist with a can-do spirit and a flair for compelling storytelling. From railways and aviation to defence, infrastructure, social development and various other diverse beats, his reportage reflects depth. His work has earned him the Times Scribe Award four times.
