Prepaid metering and self-billing digital systems in Bescom region delayed

Consumers have to wait for a few more months to avail these services

Consumers to pay fixed/demand charges in multiples of ₹100 as needed

The process of introducing prepaid metering and self-billing digital systems in the Bangalore Electricity Supply Company (Bescom) region has been delayed, leaving consumers awaiting the promised benefits.

The Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC) had instructed electricity supply companies (Escoms) to make these systems accessible to consumers by April 1 and June 1, respectively.

However, Bescom officials have revealed that due to the model code of conduct enforced for the Lok Sabha election, the implementation process had to be halted. Consequently, consumers must now wait for a few more months before they can avail themselves of these services.

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While self-billing software may become available in the next two or three months, Bescom has requested until October 1 to implement prepaid meters. Consumers will be required to pay fixed/demand charges at retail outlets before recharging energy charges in multiples of ₹100 as needed.

Bescom officials reportedly stated that the tender process for setting up the system was initiated in March but had to be paused due to the election code of conduct. However, KERC officials emphasized that they had not received any communication from Bescom regarding the delay.

Bescom is also facing server issues in simplifying the billing process, as instructed by KERC. Despite minor setbacks, officials expect the software to be ready within two to three months once server issues are resolved.