UP Power Connections Become More Affordable with New Cost Data Book
Power connections in Uttar Pradesh have become cheaper. This change follows the implementation of the new Cost Data Book by the state electricity regulatory commission.
Significant Reduction in Smart Meter Costs
The UP electricity regulatory commission issued the Cost Data Book on December 31, 2025. This new directive mandated power distribution companies to update their systems by January 12, 2026.
Under the revised rates, consumers now pay much less for smart prepaid meters. The cost of a single-phase smart prepaid meter has dropped dramatically from Rs 6,016 to just Rs 2,800. Similarly, a three-phase meter now costs Rs 4,100, down from the previous price of Rs 11,976.
These new rates started reflecting in consumer bills from Sunday. On the very first day, fifty-four new power consumers received bills according to the updated Cost Data Book.
Real Examples Show Substantial Savings
Several consumers across Uttar Pradesh have already experienced the benefits. Geeta Devi in Lucknow, Baijnath Upadhyay in Ballia, and Waseem Ahmad in Bijnor paid Rs 3,198 for their new connections. This amount included Rs 398 for line charges.
Their connections were for 1kW and 3kW respectively. The total cost represents almost half of what they would have paid previously. Similar connections used to cost around Rs 6,400 before the implementation of the new Cost Data Book.
Additional Benefit: Security Deposit Scrapped
The new pricing structure brings another important change. The security deposit previously charged on smart prepaid connections has been completely eliminated.
Avadhesh Kumar Verma, chairman of UP Rajya Vidyut Upbhokta Parishad, explained the situation. He stated that new power consumers were being charged for both smart prepaid meter costs and security deposits. This practice went against established rules.
According to Verma, approximately one lakh consumers faced this issue before the implementation of the new Cost Data Book.
Widespread Impact and Refund Requirements
The Uttar Pradesh Power Corporation Limited processed a significant number of connections during a specific period. Between September 10, 2025 and January 11, 2026, the corporation handled over 3.59 lakh new connections.
These connections generated charges totaling Rs 216.13 crore. However, the revised Cost Data Book now mandates refunds for overcharged amounts.
As a result, UPPCL will need to return approximately Rs 115.5 crore to affected consumers. The corporation will process these refunds through bill adjustments.
Expected Benefits for Thousands of Households
The reduction in power connection costs is expected to benefit thousands of households across Uttar Pradesh. As the new pricing structure becomes fully implemented, more consumers will experience these savings.
The changes represent a significant step toward making electricity connections more accessible and affordable for residents throughout the state.
