In response to the rapid industrial growth and urbanization in the state, the Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) is set to implement an advanced power distribution plan. This initiative aims to strengthen the electricity system, ensuring accident-free and high-quality power supply to consumers in the future. As part of this plan, 29 lakh smart meters will be installed in Pune.
According to information provided by MSEDCL, preparations have commenced for the installation of prepaid smart meters across the state. These meters will grant power consumers the right to determine the cost of electricity consumption according to their preferences. The operationalization of these smart meters is expected to take place in phases over the coming months.
Deputy Chief Minister and Energy Minister Devendra Fadnavis has emphasized the need to deliver quality and customer-oriented service to electricity consumers. In alignment with this directive, Mahavitaran, a subsidiary of MSEDCL, is taking a significant step by installing prepaid smart meters, giving consumers complete control over their electricity costs. The tender process for installing these new smart meters has been completed, and the installation is set to begin soon.
The existing conventional meters of 2 crore 41 lakh consumers of Mahavitaran in the state will be replaced with prepaid smart meters. Approximately 29 lakh prepaid smart meters will be installed in Pune, covering Velhe, Haveli, Mulshi, Ambegaon, Junnar, Khed, Maval talukas, along with Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad cities under the Pune circle.
After the installation of a smart meter, electricity consumers will have the ability to use electricity by paying in advance, similar to a mobile phone. This system allows consumers to decide and plan how much to spend on electricity. Regular updates on electricity consumption will be sent to customers’ mobile phones, enabling them to monitor their expenses and usage.
Importantly, customers will receive the new prepaid smart meter at no cost. The funding for these meters will be covered by subsidies from the central government and contributions from Mahavitaran. Unlike the current system, where meter readings are taken monthly, the prepaid smart meter enables consumers to control their electricity expenditure by planning and paying in advance.
