CSERC Closes Petition On Old Meter Management Amid Smart Meter Rollout In Chhattisgarh

The Chhattisgarh State Electricity Regulatory Commission (CSERC) has concluded a self-motivated petition concerning the handling of old electricity meters that were replaced with new prepaid smart meters across the state. The matter came to light after an investigative report published in Dainik Bhaskar on December 6, 2024. The report claimed that the state power department could face losses of more than ₹60 crore if the old single-phase and three-phase meters were scrapped without proper reuse or resale planning.

According to the report, nearly 60 lakh smart meters are being installed in Chhattisgarh at a cost of over ₹1,000 crore. However, it alleged that the removed meters were being dumped at zone offices without any clear strategy for reuse. It also raised concerns that officials continued purchasing old-style meters even after tenders for smart meters had already been floated.

Following these allegations, the Commission sought a detailed clarification from the Chhattisgarh State Power Distribution Company Limited. In its response, the distribution company explained that it has a classification system for removed meters. Single-phase meters are considered reusable if they are under warranty, display normal reading codes, and have functional displays. If they are beyond the warranty period, they are treated as scrap.

Three-phase meters follow a different rule. If they are in working condition, they are reused for new service connections or for agricultural consumers, regardless of whether the warranty has expired. The company stated that this process ensures that functional equipment is not wasted.

Addressing the issue of continued purchase of traditional meters during the smart meter rollout, the company clarified that it was necessary to meet service deadlines. As per state supply codes, new electricity connections must be provided within 10 to 15 days. Since the smart meter rollout under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) is a long-term project spread over 10 years, the department maintained a stock of conventional meters to ensure uninterrupted service to new consumers.

The Commission observed that while quality standards were maintained, there appeared to be a lack of coordination between the Projects wing and the Store and Purchase wing. It noted that orders for both types of meters were placed at the same time, which could have been better aligned with the smart meter implementation plan.

For scrap meters, the company conducts regular e-auctions through MSTC Limited. After reviewing the explanations and finding them consistent with draft guidelines of the Central Electricity Authority, the Commission disposed of the petition but advised better internal coordination to avoid similar concerns in the future.