Nagaland Power department clarifies on smart meter installation

DIMAPUR — The department of Power, Dimapur Electrical Division, has issued a clarification regarding observations raised by organisations including the DUCCF, DDGBA and GBUDs, which were published in local dailies on August 24.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the division said there is no cost for installation or replacement of smart meters. It informed that smart meters are being installed under two schemes — the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) and the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS). While SASCI installs smart meters on a prepaid mode, the RDSS installs them initially on a post-paid mode.

It added that during installation of prepaid smart meters, an initial recharge is required without which the meter will not function. This recharge amount is recorded in the “Migration Form” signed by both the department’s representative and the consumer.

Also read: Nagaland Power department seeks support for smart metering initiative under RDSS

In the case of post-paid mode, no charges are levied, it said, advising consumers with queries to approach the respective subdivision offices on working days.

The division stated that installation of smart meters in government offices, industrial and commercial establishments is underway as part of RDSS guidelines. It added that infrastructure augmentation works are also being carried out alongside smart metering to improve power supply.

Read more: Dimapur bodies question infrastructure readiness for prepaid meters

On concerns about choice of meters, the department said that while electricity is recognised as an essential service, the delivery method is determined by the government and the department under the rule of law.

It maintained that replacing existing post-paid meters with smart prepaid meters, including for new service connections, is mandatory under the Electricity (Rights of Consumer) Rules 2020, the Government of India notification dated August 17, 2021, and the Nagaland government notification dated March 15, 2022.