Bengaluru: Smart meters mandatory for new electricity connections in rural areas from July 1

Starting July 1, the Bangalore Electricity Supply Company (BESCOM) has made the installation of smart meters mandatory for all new and temporary electricity connections in rural areas. The directive, issued recently, is aimed at modernising the power distribution system and improving transparency in energy consumption.

Also read: Bescom to install smart meters for new connections, maintenance costs shared

The move is part of BESCOM’s broader digital upgrade initiative, which began with the rollout of smart meters in urban areas from February 15. Now, this mandate extends to rural consumers as well, ensuring that all new connections are equipped with smart technology.

Smart meters offer several benefits over traditional meters, including real-time monitoring, accurate billing, and remote disconnection or reconnection capabilities. They also reduce manual intervention and help in better detection of power theft or faults in the system.

BESCOM officials say the mandatory implementation will streamline energy management across its jurisdiction and contribute to the state's digital infrastructure goals. Contractors and electricians involved in new connections have been instructed to comply strictly with the smart meter installation rule.

This development is expected to improve efficiency, reduce billing disputes, and empower consumers with better usage data, especially in rural areas where manual metering often leads to delays and inaccuracies.

Consumers applying for connections after July 1 are urged to ensure smart meters are included in their applications to avoid delays in installation and power supply activation.