CEA mandates smart meters in network areas, updates open access norms

The Central Electricity Authority (CEA) has amended its Installation and Operation of Meters Regulations, 2006, through a gazette notification dated April 1, 2026, making smart meters mandatory for all consumers in areas with communication network coverage, in line with timelines set by the Central Government.  

The revised regulation replaces clause (b) of sub-regulation (1) of Regulation 4. It requires that consumers in network-covered areas be supplied electricity through smart meters conforming to the relevant Indian Standard. Where the current carrying capacity exceeds the specified threshold, meters with automatic remote meter reading capability or compliant smart meters will be used. In areas without communication network coverage, installation of prepayment meters conforming to the relevant Indian Standard will be allowed by the respective State Electricity Regulatory Commission.

The amendment also mandates that all Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) include prepayment functionality and ensure interoperability in accordance with guidelines issued by CEA.

For open access consumers, a smart meter with accuracy class 1.0/0.5S, conforming to the relevant Indian Standard, will serve as the interface meter for those operating at voltage levels up to 650 V.

The notification further revises Table 1 under Regulation 7 on metering arrangements across the electricity supply chain. Serial Number 4 now applies to consumers connected to inter-state or intra-state transmission or distribution systems with open access above 650 V. A new Serial Number 5 covers consumers with open access at 650 V or below, where both the main meter and check meter will be installed at the consumer’s premises, with no requirement for a standby meter.

The draft regulations were published on the CEA website on February 23, 2026, and stakeholder comments were considered before finalisation. The principal regulations were first notified on March 22, 2006, and were last amended in February 2022.

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