EE (Electrical), Peren Electrical Division Er Tsiamchi addresses an awareness programme on Smart Meter implementation held in Jalukie on July 15. (DIPR Photo)
Jalukie, JULY 15 (MExN): The Power Department has installed 1,890 smart meters in Peren Electrical Division as part of the Government of India's power sector reforms, Executive Engineer (Electrical), Peren Electrical Division, Er Tsiamchi, said during an awareness programme on smart meter implementation and the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana in Jalukie on July 15.
According to a DIPR report, the programme, organised by the Office of the Sub-Divisional Officer (Electrical), Jalukie, was held at the Women Welfare Hall, Jalukie Town to create awareness on smart meters and rooftop solar installations.
Stating that the event was organised to address doubts and misconceptions surrounding their installation, Er Tsiamchi maintained that smart meters accurately record electricity consumption, offer consumers the option of prepaid or postpaid billing.
Smart meters are also mandatory for availing rooftop solar installations under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, he added.
He appealed to public leaders and town councillors to help create awareness and encourage public cooperation for the successful implementation of the initiative. He also informed that the department has been directed by its headquarters to report areas or villages where residents are unwilling to install smart meters.
Extra Assistant Commissioner (EAC)Jalukie, Sizin Renttah also stressed the importance of public awareness and community participation, urging consumers not to be deterred by misconceptions about smart meters. He also encouraged the department to conduct more awareness programmes on the judicious use of electricity.
A technical session conducted by ANVIL highlighted the features, benefits and challenges of smart meters, explaining that the Smart Metering Project is a Ministry of Power initiative aimed at modernising the electricity distribution system by replacing conventional meters with smart meters to improve billing efficiency, transparency and consumer services.
A&D Solar representative Miile Puro also gave a presentation on the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, explaining the features of on-grid and hybrid rooftop solar systems, the installation process and loan requirements for government employees and business owners. He encouraged consumers to avail the scheme to reduce electricity costs while promoting clean and sustainable energy.
The programme concluded with an interactive session during which participants sought clarifications on smart meter implementation and the rooftop solar scheme, the DIPR report added.
