Consumers Await UPERC Decision on Prepaid to Postpaid Meter Conversion
Consumers in a fix over prepaid smart meters, await UPERC order

Image: Hindustan Times
Consumers in Uttar Pradesh are eagerly waiting for the Uttar Pradesh Electricity Regulatory Commission (UPERC) to decide on the conversion of prepaid smart meters to postpaid systems. This follows a recent clarification from the Union power minister stating that prepaid meters are optional, and a public interest petition has been filed urging immediate action to allow consumer choice.
- 01Consumers are pushing for the right to choose between prepaid and postpaid meters.
- 02The UPERC is expected to align its directives with recent central government notifications.
- 03A public interest petition has been filed to switch approximately 7 million prepaid meters to postpaid.
- 04Reports of forced installation of prepaid meters have raised consumer concerns.
- 05Distribution companies are preparing for compliance with potential UPERC orders.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Consumers in Uttar Pradesh, India, are awaiting an order from the Uttar Pradesh Electricity Regulatory Commission (UPERC) regarding the conversion of prepaid smart meters to postpaid systems. This anticipation follows a recent notification from the Central Electricity Authority (CEA) and comments by Union power minister Manohar Lal Khattar, who clarified that prepaid meters are not mandatory and should be based on consumer choice. The UPERC is likely to issue a directive that aligns with this clarification, potentially allowing consumers the flexibility to choose their metering system. A public interest petition filed by the UP Rajya Vidyut Upbhokta Parishad urges immediate action to convert about 7 million prepaid meters to postpaid. Complaints have emerged regarding forced installations of prepaid meters, particularly in Kanpur, prompting regulatory scrutiny. As consumers express optimism for the UPERC's decision, distribution companies are reportedly preparing for compliance, indicating a shift in the regulatory landscape for electricity metering in the state.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
If the UPERC allows conversion to postpaid meters, consumers will gain more control over their electricity billing and usage, potentially reducing instances of unexpected power outages.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Reader Poll
Do you believe consumers should have the right to choose between prepaid and postpaid meters?
Connecting to poll...
Read the original article
Visit the source for the complete story.



