KSERC Approves Smart Prepaid Meter Rollout For Government Consumers In Kerala

The Kerala State Electricity Regulatory Commission (KSERC) has approved a new billing and operational framework to introduce smart prepaid meters for government consumers in the state. In its order dated February 23, 2026, the Commission allowed Kerala State Electricity Board Limited (KSEBL) to shift all government electricity connections to a prepaid system starting from March 1, 2026.

This move is part of the first phase of a broader power distribution reform plan in Kerala. KSEBL aims to install nearly 300,000 smart meters covering government offices, industrial users, and distribution transformers. The total estimated cost of the project is around ₹195.30 crore. As of early 2026, about 172,724 government consumers fall under the Low Tension (LT) category and will be moved to the prepaid system in the initial phase. High Tension (HT) consumers are expected to be brought under the new system by August 2026.

Under the new framework, the billing method will change from the existing post-paid monthly cycle to a daily provisional billing system. Electricity charges, including energy consumption, fixed charges, and meter rent, will be calculated on a daily basis. These charges will be updated in the consumer’s prepaid balance through the “KSEBL Smart+” mobile application. At the end of each month, the system will carry out a final reconciliation to adjust any gap between daily provisional charges and actual meter readings.

For existing consumers, the security deposit already held by KSEBL will first be adjusted against any pending dues. If there is any balance remaining, it will be credited to the consumer’s prepaid wallet as an opening recharge amount. This is expected to help consumers start the prepaid system without immediate additional payments.

The Commission has also introduced safeguards to ensure a smooth transition. For the first three months after implementation, no government office will face disconnection due to insufficient balance. After this period, if the prepaid balance reaches zero, a 24-hour grace period will be provided before power supply is cut. Disconnections will be carried out only between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM to avoid inconvenience outside working hours. Once the consumer recharges the account, electricity supply will be restored automatically.

The order also specifies security deposits for smart meters, ranging from ₹3,100 for single-phase meters to ₹4,700 for LT-CT meters. However, consumers have the option to purchase their own smart meters. In such cases, they will not be required to pay meter rent or security deposit to KSEBL.