Starting from June 2023, 55,000 smart meters in Kashmir will switch to a pre-paid system, according to Javed Yousuf Dar, the Chief Engineer of the Kashmir Power Development Corporation Ltd (KPDCL). This transition is considered a significant milestone in the KPDCL’s efforts to streamline the distribution of electricity in the region.
According to CE, “Over the past year, these smart meters have been installed throughout Kashmir with the aim of providing real-time consumption data, remote monitoring capabilities, and automated billing systems. By shifting to a pre-paid system, consumers will now have more control over their electricity usage and budgeting.”
He said, Under the new pre-paid system, consumers will need to recharge their smart meters with credit before using electricity. This approach allows them to monitor their energy usage in real-time and make informed decisions. For example, they can reduce consumption during peak hours or adjust their usage patterns to optimize costs.
The implementation of pre-paid smart meters is expected to bring several benefits to consumers. It enables them to track their energy consumption closely and make adjustments to avoid excessive usage, ultimately helping them manage their electricity expenses more effectively. The real-time data provided by these meters will empower consumers to make informed decisions about their energy usage.
Additionally, the pre-paid system will simplify the billing process by automating it. This means that consumers will not have to go through the hassle of receiving monthly bills and settling them afterward. Instead, they will have the convenience of recharging their smart meters as per their requirements, thereby enhancing the overall user experience.
By adopting smart meters and implementing a pre-paid system, the KPDCL aims to enhance the efficiency and transparency of the electricity distribution process in Kashmir. This transition represents a step towards modernizing the power infrastructure and improving the overall power management in the region, the senior PDD officals added.
