2.9 Lakh Consumers From Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad to Get Prepaid Meters in MSEDCL Initiative
Pune, 11th December 2023: Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) is set to replace conventional meters with prepaid smart meters for approximately 2.9 lakh consumers in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad, including various talukas. This initiative aims to empower consumers, enhance service quality, and prevent power leakage. The prepaid smart meters will allow customers to manage and control their electricity consumption by recharging meters similar to mobile phones.
The urbanization surge in Pune has heightened the electricity demand, necessitating effective management. MSEDCL is implementing a revised distribution area scheme to strengthen the power system. The installation of prepaid smart meters is part of this effort to provide reliable electricity and curb power losses. The project will be implemented in phases, providing customers with the flexibility to determine electricity costs based on their consumption preferences.
The tender process for the installation of new smart meters has been completed. Over two crore 41 lakh existing conventional meters across the state will be replaced with prepaid smart meters. In the Pune circle, around 29 lakh prepaid smart meters will be installed in various talukas, including Velhe, Haveli, Mulshi, Ambegaon, Junnar, Khed, Maval, Pune, and Pimpri-Chinchwad cities.
Customers of MSEDCL will receive the new prepaid smart electricity meters at no cost, with the expenses covered by subsidies from the Central Government and MSEDCL. The introduction of prepaid smart meters allows customers to engage in financial planning by paying for electricity in advance, providing greater control over electricity costs.
When the prepaid smart meter’s balance is depleted, the power supply will be interrupted. However, customers will receive real-time information about their electricity consumption on their mobile phones, facilitating easy recharging. Online payment options will be available, allowing customers to recharge from the comfort of their homes. Customers will receive alerts on their mobile phones when their balance is low.
In cases where customers run out of funds for electricity at midnight, the power supply will not be abruptly cut. The prepaid smart meter offers a facility where customers can continue the electricity supply by paying the outstanding amount until 10 am the next day. After this grace period, the electricity supply will be disconnected if the balance remains insufficient.
