Prepaid smart meters: KSEB again seeks Centre’s nod for grant for CAPEX mode roll-out-OxBig News Network

The Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) has reiterated its request for the allocation of Central grant for prepaid smart meter rollout on CAPEX mode in the State, according to the Power department.

The Centre, however, is yet to give any assurance to the State government in this regard, according to the department. The Central guidelines for smart meters prescribe the TOTEX (Total expenditure) model for the rollout which the Kerala government had decided to avoid following protests by power sector unions.

It was also estimated that the CAPEX model would be a more cost-effective option for the consumers and the KSEB, which is the implementing agency. The matter had also come up in the State Assembly earlier this month.

As per an alternative proposal approved by the government, the KSEB had announced plans to install three lakh meters in Phase-1, covering government institutions, KSEB’s own system meters and high-tension consumers.

The roll-out is proposed in two packages, where the first would involve the smart meters, communication network and allied software and the second, MDMS software for storing meter data and integration. according to State Assembly documents.

Power sector unions had opposed the TOTEX model, alleging that it separates billing responsibilities from the KSEB and entails huge financial burden for the consumers. The initial proposal was designed to install 37 lakh meters in Phase 1.

A meeting convened by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan in August 2023, had directed the KSEB to avoid TOTEX model and set the Phase-1 target at 3 lakh meters. Under the new CAPEX proposal, KSEB will be responsible for billing and allied services. Its own data centre will be used to store the consumption data.