Haryana to begin smart metering on ground from August 31

Haryana has committed to commencing smart metering works on the ground from August 31, 2026, following a review meeting chaired by Union Minister for Power and Housing & Urban Affairs, Shri Manohar Lal.  

During the review, the Union Minister called for a detailed action plan covering the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) and the operational and financial performance of the State’s distribution companies (DISCOMs). He emphasised that electricity is an economic good and highlighted the need to reduce power purchase costs, rationalise expenditure, and strengthen revenue realisation.

Shri Manohar Lal noted that aggregate technical and commercial (AT&C) losses have shown consistent improvement over the years but said further reduction remains necessary. He also stressed the timely settlement of government department dues and subsidy payments through an automated payment mechanism.

Reviewing the progress of smart metering, the Minister advised the State to expedite the award of contracts. Haryana subsequently committed to starting smart metering works on the ground from August 31, 2026. He also recommended a phased rollout of prepaid smart meters, beginning with government consumers and employees, followed by consumers with connected loads above 10 kW, supported by incentives for voluntary adoption.

The Minister directed the State to prioritise loss reduction projects with defined completion timelines. He also reviewed resource adequacy and intra-state transmission planning and urged Haryana to address pending issues to ensure that generation and transmission capacity expansion keeps pace with growing electricity demand.

Progress under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana was also assessed. The State was asked to prepare a focused action plan to increase consumer enrolment under the scheme and help reduce electricity costs for households.

Shri Manohar Lal said sustained efforts would help improve the financial viability of Haryana’s DISCOMs and strengthen the State’s power sector. He assured continued support from the Government of India for the implementation of reforms and infrastructure projects.

The featured photograph is for representation only.