Smart meters: govt. offices all set to shift to prepaid billing, says KSEB
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Infrastructure (energy, ports, roads, railways)· Prelims·
Why in news
The Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) announced that state government offices will transition to prepaid billing under smart metering to reduce outstanding dues.
Background
KSEB is implementing this move under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS). The transition impacts approximately 1.3 lakh consumers, with over 1.72 lakh smart meters already installed across various categories.
Facts for Prelims
- SchemeRDSS: Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme is the central scheme under which KSEB is implementing smart metering.
- FactKSEB has installed over 1.72 lakh smart meters in government offices, KSEB systems meters, and high-tension consumers.
- FactThe prepaid billing transition will impact approximately 1.3 lakh consumers in Kerala.
For Mains
Q. Discuss how the implementation of smart metering and prepaid billing models can enhance the fiscal health of state-run power distribution utilities.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Revenue leakage: Reducing non-payment and outstanding dues from government entities to improve utility liquidity
- Digital infrastructure: Leveraging smart meters to enable real-time monitoring and automated billing cycles
- Fiscal discipline: Transitioning public offices to prepaid models to ensure consistent funding for power infrastructure
Keywords: Revenue leakage · Fiscal health · Smart metering · Prepaid billing · Infrastructure modernization
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This note is generated automatically from SatyaDheesh's news feed and mapped to the UPSC CSE syllabus. Check facts against the original report or PIB before using them in an answer.