Manohar Lal Reviews Haryana Power Sector Performance, Pushes Smart Meter Rollout

During the review, Manohar Lal emphasised that electricity should be treated as an economic good and that power utilities must operate on sound commercial principles.

Union Minister for Power and Housing & Urban Affairs Shri Manohar Lal has reviewed the performance and future plans of Haryana's power sector, stressing the need for stronger financial discipline, accelerated infrastructure upgrades and faster implementation of key reforms aimed at improving electricity distribution and consumer services.

The review meeting was held in Chandigarh and was attended by Haryana Power Minister Shri Anil Vij, senior officials from the Government of Haryana, representatives of the Ministry of Power, Government of India, and officials from power sector Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs).

The discussions focused on strengthening Haryana's electricity distribution system, improving the financial health of power utilities, expanding smart metering, reducing power losses and ensuring that future electricity demand is met through adequate capacity planning.

Focus on Strengthening Power Distribution Infrastructure

At the start of the meeting, Union Minister Manohar Lal highlighted several priority areas where the Haryana Power Department and state-owned power sector undertakings could improve performance through a structured and time-bound action plan.

Particular attention was given to the implementation of the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS), one of the Government of India's flagship programmes aimed at improving the operational efficiency and financial sustainability of electricity distribution companies (DISCOMs).

The minister reviewed the progress of projects being implemented under the scheme and examined key operational and financial indicators relating to Haryana's power utilities.

Officials discussed measures required to strengthen the distribution network, improve service delivery and ensure reliable electricity supply to consumers across the state.

Electricity Must Be Managed on Commercial Principles

During the review, Manohar Lal emphasised that electricity should be treated as an economic good and that power utilities must operate on sound commercial principles.

He noted that maintaining the financial sustainability of power distribution companies is essential for ensuring long-term reliability and quality of electricity services.

The minister urged Haryana's power utilities to focus on:

• Reducing the cost of power procurement.

• Rationalising operational expenditure.

• Improving revenue collection.

• Enhancing overall financial efficiency.

According to him, efficient financial management will help DISCOMs become more self-sustaining while reducing dependence on external financial support.

He stressed that financially healthy utilities are better positioned to invest in infrastructure, adopt new technologies and improve consumer services.

Continued Reduction in Power Losses Encouraged

The Union Minister acknowledged the progress made by Haryana in reducing Aggregate Technical and Commercial (AT&C) losses over recent years. AT&C losses represent electricity lost due to technical inefficiencies, theft, billing inaccuracies and collection shortfalls. Lower losses improve the financial performance of utilities and increase the efficiency of electricity distribution systems. While recognising the state's achievements, Manohar Lal said further improvements are necessary. He urged Haryana's power utilities to continue implementing measures aimed at reducing losses and improving operational efficiency.

According to the minister, sustained reductions in AT&C losses will contribute significantly to the long-term financial viability of the state's power sector.

Push for Automated Payment Systems

Another key issue discussed during the meeting was the timely settlement of dues owed by government departments and agencies.

The minister highlighted the importance of ensuring that government payments, including subsidies and departmental electricity bills, are settled without delay.

To address payment bottlenecks, he advocated the adoption of automated payment mechanisms that can improve transparency, reduce delays and strengthen cash flows for distribution companies.

Such systems would help ensure that utilities receive payments on time and can better manage their financial obligations.

Officials agreed that improving payment discipline is an important step towards enhancing the financial health of the power sector.

Smart Meter Rollout to Begin in August

One of the major focus areas of the review was the implementation of smart metering projects across Haryana. Manohar Lal reviewed the current status of smart meter deployment and directed the state to accelerate the award and execution of pending works.

Smart meters are considered a key component of India's power sector modernisation efforts, offering benefits such as:

• Real-time monitoring of electricity consumption.

• Improved billing accuracy.

• Reduced power theft.

• Better demand management.

• Enhanced consumer services.

During the meeting, Haryana committed to commencing on-ground smart metering works from 31 August 2026.

The commitment marks an important step in the state's transition towards a more efficient and technologically advanced electricity distribution system.

Phased Introduction of Prepaid Smart Meters

The Union Minister also outlined a phased approach for introducing prepaid smart metering across the state.

He recommended that the rollout begin with government consumers and government employees before expanding to other consumer categories.

The next phase should target high-consumption consumers with connected loads exceeding 10 kilowatts.

According to the minister, introducing prepaid smart meters can help improve billing efficiency, reduce arrears and encourage more responsible electricity consumption.

He also suggested that incentive mechanisms be developed to encourage consumers to voluntarily switch to prepaid smart metering systems.

The phased strategy is intended to ensure smooth implementation while allowing utilities to gain operational experience before expanding the programme more broadly.

Loss Reduction Projects Must Be Prioritised

The review meeting also focused on infrastructure projects designed to reduce distribution losses and improve network reliability.

Manohar Lal advised the state government to prioritise all loss-reduction works and ensure their completion within clearly defined timelines.

These projects include network strengthening, feeder improvements, system upgrades and other initiatives aimed at improving efficiency and reducing technical losses.

The minister stressed that timely implementation is critical for achieving the intended benefits and supporting the state's broader power sector reform objectives.

He urged officials to closely monitor project progress and resolve implementation challenges proactively.

Resource Adequacy and Transmission Planning Reviewed

As electricity demand continues to grow across Haryana, ensuring adequate generation and transmission capacity remains a key priority.

The minister reviewed the state's resource adequacy plans and intra-state transmission infrastructure development.

Discussions focused on ensuring that future capacity additions keep pace with rising demand from households, businesses and industries.

Manohar Lal advised state authorities to address any outstanding planning or implementation issues that could affect future electricity availability.

He emphasised the importance of long-term planning to prevent shortages and maintain reliable power supply as the state's economy continues to expand.

PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana Progress Assessed

The meeting also reviewed Haryana's progress under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, the Government of India's flagship rooftop solar programme.

The scheme aims to promote solar energy adoption among households by providing financial support for rooftop solar installations.

Manohar Lal directed the state government to prepare a focused action plan aimed at expanding consumer enrolment under the programme.

Increasing participation in the scheme is expected to deliver several benefits, including:

• Lower electricity bills for consumers.

• Increased use of renewable energy.

• Reduced dependence on conventional power sources.

• Improved energy security.

The minister noted that wider adoption of rooftop solar systems can contribute significantly to both consumer savings and national clean energy goals.

Financially Strong DISCOMs Key to Future Growth

Summarising the discussions, the Union Minister emphasised that sustained reform efforts can significantly strengthen Haryana's power sector.

He noted that sincere implementation of reform measures, infrastructure upgrades and operational improvements would help make the state's distribution companies financially viable and self-sufficient.

According to Manohar Lal, stronger utilities will be better equipped to meet growing electricity demand while delivering reliable and affordable services to consumers.

He reiterated the Government of India's commitment to supporting Haryana's power sector development through policy assistance, technical guidance and financial support where required.

Haryana Assures Full Cooperation

Haryana Power Minister Shri Anil Vij assured the Union Minister that the state government remains committed to implementing all sanctioned projects and reform measures.

He said Haryana would take all necessary steps to improve the performance of the state's power sector and ensure the successful execution of initiatives discussed during the review meeting.

The minister reaffirmed the state's focus on enhancing electricity services, improving utility performance and supporting long-term energy security.

The review meeting concluded with a shared commitment between the Centre and the state government to accelerate reforms, strengthen infrastructure and build a more efficient, financially sustainable and consumer-friendly power sector in Haryana.