APSERC gives Arunachal power dept four months to fix metering gaps

The Arunachal Pradesh State Electricity Regulatory Commission (APSERC) has directed the Department of Power, Government of Arunachal Pradesh, to address widespread non-compliance in consumer metering, warning of prosecution if corrective action is not completed within four months. The order was issued on April 8, 2026, in the Commission’s first suo motu proceeding of the year.

APSERC noted that out of 3,13,903 consumers in the state, 1,64,881, over 52%, are either unmetered or connected through defective meters. Of these, 1,19,779 consumers have no meters, while 45,102 are linked to non-functional meters. The Commission described the situation as a serious breach of statutory requirements.

The issue extends beyond domestic consumers. Among 376 industrial consumers, 111 are unmetered, while 93 of 198 bulk mixed consumers also lack proper metering. APSERC stated that while logistical challenges in remote domestic segments may exist, there is no justification for non-compliance in industrial and bulk categories, given their revenue significance.

The proceedings stem from directions issued during the 8th State Advisory Committee meeting on October 14, 2025. The Department sought multiple extensions to submit division-wise data and provided incomplete information despite deadlines extended up to December 31, 2025. During hearings on April 2, 2026, officials cited implementation challenges under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) and recent administrative changes, but APSERC found these explanations inadequate.

The Commission reiterated the legal requirement under the Electricity Act, 2003, which prohibits supply without a valid meter, along with provisions of the Electricity (Rights of Consumers) Rules, 2020 and APSERC Supply Code Regulations, 2024 mandating timely installation and replacement of meters.

Taking a lenient view, APSERC has not imposed penalties at this stage. Instead, it has directed the Department to implement a time-bound action plan, prioritise metering of industrial and bulk mixed consumers, and submit monthly progress reports. It also warned that failure to comply will lead to action under Sections 142 and 146 of the Act, and may involve inspection and document seizure under Section 96.

The featured photograph is for representation only.