Dimapur, November 8 (MExN): The Nagaland Power Department on Saturday issued a clarification on the ongoing installation of smart electricity meters in Dimapur and announced a probe into allegations made by a local news channel against the department.
In a press release, the Office of the Chief Engineer (Distribution & Revenue) detailed the process for consumers and addressed concerns over corrupt practices.
The department stated that the installation or replacement of existing conventional meters with Smart Meters is free of charge under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS).
It clarified that the Smart Meters installed under RDSS will initially operate in a post-paid mode, and no initial recharge amount will be required. “Once the Smart Metering system stabilises, the department will transition to a prepaid mode, and consumers will be informed in advance via SMS, email, or print media,” the release stated.
The department has requested consumers to update their contact information, such as mobile numbers and email addresses, as printed electric bills will no longer be issued due to the digital migration to a paperless billing system.
It further stated that the installation of Smart Prepaid Meters under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) Scheme is also free of charge.
“However, under the SASCI scheme, consumers will need to pay an initial recharge amount (up to Rs 500) for the activation and usage of the prepaid meter, which will operate in prepaid mode from the moment of installation,” the department said.
It is mandatory for applicants seeking new electricity service connections or additional meters and load changes in Nagaland to submit a Wiring Completion and Test Report from an authorised Licensed Electrical Contractor of the Department of Power, Nagaland.
“This report is necessary for the free issuance and installation of a Smart Meter,” it stated. The department has advised the public to engage only registered electrical contractors for internal wiring work, ensuring safety standards and quality. “Only registered electrical contractors under DoPN, who have completed the internal wiring of the building, are authorized to issue such reports/certificates at no charge,” it said.
The department has also raised concerns over an illegal practice where property owners hire unauthorised electricians for internal wiring and later try to obtain the test certificate from a licensed contractor who did not perform the work. This practice is illegal and should be strictly avoided, the release said.
Engaging a non-licensed contractor may lead to the purchasing of a test certificate, which fosters corrupt practices and compromises work quality. The rates set by the Nagaland Electrical Contractor’s Association for these certificates are not legal and could lead to the disqualification of the contractor's license, it added.
An Electrical Test Certificate verifies that a property's electrical installations, including wiring, sockets, fuse boxes, and panels, meet safety standards. It involves thorough inspection and testing to identify potential hazards, defects, and outdated components, which is crucial for preventing electric shocks, accidents, and fires, and for compliance with the IE Act 2003 and related rules.
For multi-story buildings used for rental purposes, where tenants share electricity bills under the owner's name, separate Smart Meters as required can be opted for. “The building owner or tenants must submit an application along with the test certificate from the registered electrical contractor who completed the internal wiring for the modified LT circuit where the new Smart Meters will be installed.”
Upon reviewing the application for completeness, the Division or Sub-Division Office will issue the Smart Meters for free installation. However, the costs associated with service wires, cables, cut-outs, MCBs, etc., conforming to the relevant IS/BIS specifications, will be the responsibility of the intending consumers or must be provided to the Department’s staff during installation, it stated.
Meanwhile, the Department has constituted a divisional-level inquiry committee to probe allegations against it concerning smart meter installations, which were recently reported by a local news channel. The committee is expected to complete its findings and submit the report by November 10, 2025.
The department assured that if any of its officers or staff are found guilty of corrupt practices in the smart meter installation process, appropriate disciplinary action will be initiated by the department and the state government.
It also urged all parties to verify information and seek the department's input before publishing such reports to prevent the dissemination of incorrect or biased information, which it said could create confusion among the public.
The press release was issued in the interest of public information and service, it concluded.
