Push for Smart Meters Faces Hurdles in Key States

Several Indian states, including Delhi and Kerala, report zero installations of smart electricity meters under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme as of June 2025, Parliament was informed. The scheme, aimed at enhancing distribution network efficiencies, has seen limited progress with a goal to complete installations by March 2028.

In a setback to India's Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme, states such as Delhi, Kerala, and Punjab are yet to initiate the installation of smart electricity meters, as revealed in a Parliamentary report.

Despite the 2021 launch of the initiative aimed at boosting the operational and financial efficiency of power distribution utilities, many states have reported zero installations as of June 2025. Out of the 20.33 crore meters sanctioned under the scheme, only 2.27 crore have been installed nationwide.

Plans include updating power infrastructure to withstand extreme weather, with projects costing Rs 3,088 crore approved for coastal regions. These upgrades are part of larger efforts to reinforce the national power grid against climate-related disruptions.

(With inputs from agencies.)