Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann hints at introducing pre-paid electricity meters for domestic consumers
Patiala, February 13: Close on the heels of cash-strapped Punjab State Power Corporation's (PSPCL) decision to install pre-paid electricity meters at governments offices, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Monday hinted at making this mandatory for domestic consumers too.
He made this categorical statement while addressing power engineers in Patiala. Earlier, cash-strapped Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) had issued a circular for introduction of smart pre-paid meters for government connections.
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Punjab State Power Corporation Limited, in its circular, stated that as per provisions of Regulation No. 21 of the Supply Code-201, it had been decided to introduce smart pre-paid meters for existing and new government connections in PSPCL up to contract demand of 45 KVA with effect from March 1.
Consumers will now pay advance for the future consumption of electricity and will be actively involved in their electricity consumption pattern.
The PSPCL circular states that tariff for the respective category of connections shall be applicable. There shall be a rebate of 1 per cent on energy charges i.e. charges for quantity of electricity supplied to consumer in terms of KWHKVAH in case of connections with prepaid meters.
Since government departments would have to make advance payment for connections with prepaid meters, they may make proper accounting system for the same at their end.
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- With inputs from our correspondent
