Is Tripura Set to Install 6 Lakh Smart Meters by March 2027?
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Synopsis
Tripura State Electricity Corporation Limited plans to revolutionize electricity consumption in the state by installing 600,000 smart meters by 2027. With a significant portion already installed, this initiative promises to streamline billing and enhance the overall consumer experience. Stay tuned for how this transformation could alter the electricity landscape in Tripura!
Key Takeaways
- TSECL targets to install 600,000 smart meters by March 2027.
- 88,750 smart meters are already installed.
- Smart meters will provide real-time data and eliminate manual readings.
- Project cost is estimated at Rs 603 crore.
- Only 49% of consumers currently pay their bills.
Agartala, July 11 (NationPress) The Tripura State Electricity Corporation Limited (TSECL) has announced an ambitious plan to deploy 600,000 consumer-friendly smart meters throughout the state by March 2027, as reported by officials on Friday.
TSECL's Managing Director, Biswajit Basu, indicated that this initiative aligns with the Union government’s Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS), aiming to enhance the infrastructure for electricity consumers.
To date, approximately 88,750 smart meters have been successfully installed across Tripura, Basu informed the media.
In collaboration with the Centre's RDSS and projects funded by the Asian Development Bank, TSECL is making significant progress in upgrading the state's power infrastructure by introducing smart meters.
As detailed by the TSECL MD, these digital smart meters are equipped with advanced communication technology, allowing for automated and remote monitoring of energy consumption.
The smart meters will provide real-time usage statistics to both consumers and TSECL, replacing the current manual meter reading system, he stated.
Basu elaborated that these smart meters will enable the preparation of both postpaid and prepaid billing, facilitate usage tracking via mobile applications, and allow for quick fault detection for timely resolution. The project is projected to conclude by March 2027 at an estimated cost of Rs 603 crore.
Addressing the concern of low bill payments, the TSECL Managing Director disclosed that only 49 percent of the state's 1 million power consumers are currently settling their electricity bills.
"Last year, the figure stood at just 39 percent. We are visiting households, urging people to make payments. We cannot compel anyone. The total outstanding dues have reached approximately Rs 450 crore to date," he stated, assuring that government departments have no pending payments.
Basu also mentioned that a pre-feasibility report is underway through the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation for establishing an 800 MW pumped storage power project in Longthorai Valley, located in the Dhalai district.
The proposed project has been deemed technically feasible.
A Detailed Project Report (DPR) is expected to follow shortly, with an estimated project cost ranging between Rs 6,000 to Rs 7,000 crore.
Point of View
I observe that the initiative taken by TSECL in Tripura reflects a significant advancement in the state's energy infrastructure. By adopting smart technology, they are not only modernizing power supply but also addressing consumer needs effectively. This proactive step aligns with national goals of sustainability and efficiency in energy consumption.
NationPress
22/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the goal of TSECL regarding smart meters?
TSECL aims to install 600,000 consumer-friendly smart meters throughout Tripura by March 2027.
How many smart meters have been installed so far?
Approximately 88,750 smart meters have already been installed in Tripura.
What technology do smart meters use?
Smart meters are equipped with communication technology that allows for automated and remote reading of energy consumption.
What is the estimated cost for the smart meter project?
The project is estimated to cost around Rs 603 crore.
How many consumers currently pay their electricity bills?
Currently, only 49% of the state's 1 million power consumers are paying their electricity bills.
