The Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) has urged electricity consumers to adopt smart meters, stressing improved billing accuracy and consumer convenience. The utility presented the shift as part of a broader technological modernisation intended to enhance transparency and reduce billing disputes. Officials asked consumers to cooperate with field staff during installations and to address misconceptions about meter safety and functionality.

Time-of-Day (TOD) meters enable differential tariff calculation by recording consumption at specific hours and allow users to benefit from lower charges for off peak usage. From one July 2025, domestic low tension consumers and high tension housing societies became eligible for a phased rebate of eighty paise to Rs one per unit for consumption recorded between nine am and five pm. Smart meters also provide hourly, daily, weekly and monthly consumption data via a mobile application, helping households monitor usage and plan demand.

The utility said smart meters replace ageing mechanical and electromagnetic meters that can no longer deliver precise readings and that automation will reduce estimated or average billing complaints. Installation is being undertaken free of cost and smart meters will operate on a postpaid basis under the existing billing framework. Consumers were advised that meter readings will be captured electronically, improving efficiency and providing clearer audit trails for consumption and charges.

MSEDCL encouraged consumers to use the detailed usage information to manage demand and to adopt simple behavioural changes that can lower bills and conserve energy. The utility emphasised that modern metering will support greater operational efficiency, faster complaint resolution and improved consumer engagement. Households were urged to register on the application portal and to coordinate with field teams to ensure timely installations and accurate data capture. Officials noted that the rollout will be phased and that consumers will be informed ahead of local installations.