In a move that could have far reaching consequences, the has directedpowerdistribution companies to replace existing electricity meters in all government offices, including local bodies withprepaid meters.
Thediscomshave been permitted to procure smart/prepaid meters to replace the existing meters. Although the decision is likely to help discoms in getting their billing Money in advance, it has to be seen how the government would manage the finances to pay the same to different departments and local bodies.
The government had already started installation of smart meters foragriculture pumpsetsin the state and is spending close to Rs 8,500 crore on free power supply for the Agriculture-notes-for-state-psc-exams”>Agriculture sector.
The government had to remit the entire metered amount into the respective farmers bank account as part of its Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) scheme. The respective power distribution companies would be allowed to take the entire amount from the farmers account without delay.