Since the enactment of the Electricity Act in 2003, the Indian power sector has witnessed significant reforms, but challenges persist in the distribution sector. High Aggregate Technical and Commercial (AT&C) losses and mounting dues of state power distribution utilities have hindered progress.
One of the major contributing factors to these problems is the lack of adequate metering infrastructure. Accurate metering is essential for energy auditing, accounting, and load balancing, as well as optimizing power supply and distribution network performance.
The Importance of Metering
Correct metering data enables utilities to forecast loads, optimize power procurement, and ensure reliable power supply. Smart meters can help identify individual system losses and facilitate demand-side management, leading to reduced AT&C losses.
Metering data empowers utilities to make informed decisions regarding system planning and operational efficiency.
The Bureau of Energy Efficiency regulations mandate energy auditing, which requires proper metering at various levels of the distribution network.
Consumer metering enables fair billing practices and empowers consumers to make informed decisions about their energy consumption.
Government Initiatives
The government has taken steps to address these challenges through initiatives like the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS). The RDSS aims to reduce AT&C losses and bridge the gap between the Average Cost of Supply (ACS) and Average Revenue Realized (ARR).
Under the RDSS, eligible DISCOMs are receiving financial support for installing prepaid smart meters for consumers and smart meters at feeders and distribution transformers. This significant investment will revolutionize consumer metering and improve the efficiency of the distribution sector.
Metering Status in India
The CEA has prepared a report on the status of consumer metering, feeder metering, and distribution transformer (DT) metering as of March 31, 2024. The report reveals that while progress has been made, there is still a need for further expansion of metering infrastructure to achieve optimal efficiency and reliability in the power sector.
As India continues to grow and develop, a robust and efficient metering infrastructure will be crucial for ensuring a sustainable and reliable power supply to meet the nation’s increasing energy demands.
