The Andhra Pradesh Electricity Department is implementing a smart and prepaid metering system for all consumers under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS), a program initiated by the Central Government. J. Padma Janardhana Reddy, Chairman and Managing Director of Andhra Pradesh Central Power Distribution Corporation Ltd. (APCPDCL), stated in an interview with The Hindu that the rollout of prepaid meters will occur in phases, starting with government offices, followed by commercial establishments, and eventually residential consumers.
In the initial phase, APCPDCL plans to acquire 970,000 smart and prepaid meters. Of these, 400,000 will be allocated for domestic consumers, while the remainder will be installed in government offices and commercial spaces. Given that the corporation serves over 5.5 million consumers, all customers are expected to receive these advanced meters within the next couple of years.
Mr. Reddy elaborated on the operational changes, indicating a significant shift in consumer behavior. With this new system, consumers will be required to make payments before utilizing electricity, allowing flexibility to prepay for anticipated usage on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis. In cases where extra power is needed unexpectedly, consumers can pay for the additional consumption promptly.
He explained that when the funds in a consumer’s account are exhausted, the meters will automatically disconnect the power supply. However, during certain time frames, such as nights, peak hours, festivals, and holidays, supply will continue, although consumers will be required to settle the bill for the consumed units after the specified period.
“Once funds in a consumer’s account deplete, the meter will automatically disconnect power supply. But during certain periods, supply will continue. However, the consumers are required to settle the bill for the utilized units after the said period,” Mr. Reddy noted.
This new approach represents a shift away from the traditional post-paid billing system. Additionally, the APCPDCL is introducing a feature termed ‘happy days’, during which power supply remains uninterrupted despite depleted funds.
Mr. Reddy also mentioned that the department would charge ₹86 per month for 93 months for the installation of these meters. The APCPDCL has initiated a survey for the smart metering system, which is expected to conclude within the month.
