Power Ministry Launches Smart Meter Pakhwada to Address Growing Concerns
In response to escalating technical complaints and mounting public resistance regarding smart prepaid meters throughout India, including significant issues reported in Uttar Pradesh, the Union Ministry of Power has issued a crucial directive. All electricity distribution companies across the nation have been instructed to mandatorily observe 'Smart Meter Pakhwada' from February 9 to February 23, 2024.
House-to-House Demonstrations Become Mandatory
A central component of this initiative requires discoms to arrange comprehensive demonstration sessions at every single household where smart meters are being installed during this two-week period. These live, in-person demonstrations must thoroughly cover:
- Complete meter recharge processes and payment mechanisms
- Daily operational procedures and usage monitoring
- All consumer-facing features and digital interfaces
- Troubleshooting common technical issues
An official source emphasized that "the fundamental goal is to ensure that every user becomes confident and self-sufficient in managing their new smart meter from the very first day of installation." This approach aims to directly counter the confusion and frustration that has accompanied many smart meter rollouts.
Performance Measurement and Stakeholder Responsibilities
The effectiveness of this nationwide campaign will be rigorously measured using specific Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), including:
- The total number of households covered by live demonstrations
- Mobile application installations for smart meter management
- Consumer feedback captured through digital platforms and surveys
- Resolution rates for technical complaints
Electricity distribution companies bear primary responsibility for planning, consumer mobilization, and grievance redressal throughout the campaign. They will receive technical support from Advanced Metering Infrastructure Service Providers (AMISPs) for conducting demonstrations and facilitating mobile app onboarding. Nodal agencies will oversee on-ground coordination and implementation quality.
Uttar Pradesh's Specific Implementation Framework
In Uttar Pradesh, where smart meter implementation has faced particular scrutiny, the Uttar Pradesh Power Corporation Limited (UPPCL) and Rural Electrification Corporation have been designated as nodal agencies. Following the campaign's conclusion, a consolidated report detailing all activities, KPI achievements, and comprehensive consumer feedback must be submitted to the Ministry of Power within fifteen days.
Meanwhile, Avadhesh Kumar Verma, Chairman of the UP Rajya Vidyut Upbhokta Parishad and a member of the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission's Advisory Committee, revealed significant installation statistics. He confirmed that over 61 lakh smart prepaid meters have been installed in Uttar Pradesh alone, with approximately 47 lakh currently functioning in prepaid mode.
This coordinated national effort represents a significant attempt to address the technical and operational challenges that have hampered smart meter adoption across multiple states. By combining mandatory demonstrations with measurable outcomes and clear stakeholder responsibilities, the Power Ministry aims to transform consumer experience and build trust in this critical infrastructure modernization initiative.
