The Spokesperson of the Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board Limited (HPSEBL) today clarified that the installation of smart electricity meters in the State will neither affect the free power subsidy of up to 125 units nor lead to any increase in electricity bills.
He informed that around 7.5 lakh smart meters have already been installed across Himachal Pradesh. A smart meter, he said, is merely a device to measure electricity consumption—similar to a conventional meter—and has no role in altering tariff rates or billing policies. He added that opposition to smart meters and misleading narratives circulating on social media stem from misinformation and distortion of facts.
The spokesperson explained that under the earlier system, bills were sometimes generated on an average basis, even when consumers were not using electricity. With smart meters, billing will be based strictly on actual consumption, ensuring that consumers are charged only for the power they use. Consumption data is automatically transmitted to a central data centre, enabling accurate billing and improved online services.
He emphasized that the shift to smart meters marks a transition from manual or estimated billing to a real-time, data-driven system, aimed at enhancing efficiency and convenience for consumers. To address any concerns, orders have also been issued allowing consumers to install a second smart meter alongside the existing one if they suspect inaccuracies. This arrangement enables consumers to monitor electricity usage at 15-minute intervals. In case of any discrepancy, consumers can approach their respective Electricity Sub-Division offices.
Reiterating the objectives behind the initiative, the spokesperson said smart meters are being installed to promote transparency, efficiency, and consumer-friendly services. He urged people not to be misled by rumours and misinformation, and to rely only on verified and authentic sources. He also added that consumers may voluntarily opt for prepaid smart meters if they so choose.
