There is big relief for electricity consumers.
The Central Electricity Authority has removed the compulsory rule of prepaid smart meters.
Now, only smart meters will be installed, but choosing prepaid mode will depend on the consumer.
This new order came into effect on April 1, 2026.
Earlier, most new electricity connections were getting prepaid smart meters by default.
This decision had faced strong opposition from consumers.
Over 78 Lakh Smart Meters Already Installed
At present, more than 78 lakh smart meters have been installed in the state.
Out of these, around 70 lakh are prepaid smart meters.
The Power Corporation had been installing prepaid meters even though it was not compulsory.
This created confusion and dissatisfaction among consumers.
Now, the new rule makes it clear that prepaid mode is optional, not mandatory.
Consumer Council’s Protest Finally Pays Off
The State Electricity Consumer Council had been continuously protesting against forced prepaid meters.
Council President Awadhesh Kumar Verma said that this change is a big win for electricity consumers across the country.
He confirmed that smart meters will continue to be installed, but prepaid mode will only be applied if the consumer agrees.
Government Focus on Better Power Supply in Summer
With summer approaching, electricity demand is expected to rise.
Ashish Kumar Goyal, Additional Chief Secretary of the Energy Department, has given strict instructions to improve the power system.
Officials have been told to ensure that there are no power cuts due to line tripping.
Maintenance work at substations must be completed on time.
Regular inspections will be carried out, and strict action will be taken if negligence leads to power disruption.
Strict Monitoring and Safety Measures
The department has also been asked to:
Collect and analyze data from all divisions and zones
Conduct mock fire safety drills
Check the condition of old substations and transformers
Carry out timely maintenance
These steps aim to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply during peak summer.
Employees Prepare for Protest Against Privatization
Meanwhile, the Vidyut Karmachari Joint Sangharsh Samiti is planning to intensify its protest against privatization.
A final decision will be taken in the upcoming central executive meeting.
The group has claimed that the privatization proposal has not been withdrawn yet.
They have also raised concerns about harassment of protesting workers and large-scale job losses among contract employees.
