Manipur State Power Distribution Company Limited (MSPDCL) has clarified that there is no difference in electricity consumption between old prepaid meters and Smart Prepaid Meters amid growing public concerns over higher power usage. The clarification was made during a press meet held at the MSPDCL office in Imphal to address queries regarding the installation and functioning of Smart Prepaid Meters.

Speaking at the press conference, Executive Director (Commercial) Ayekpam Ibotombi said MSPDCL had initially installed around 5,000 Smart Prepaid Meters as check meters to compare consumption records with old prepaid meters. He stated that the verification found no variation in electricity consumption between the two systems, dismissing rumours that Smart Prepaid Meters consume more power.

He further said that consumers suspecting unusually high consumption can lodge complaints with MSPDCL, after which check meters may be installed to verify the readings.

Explaining the purpose of the Smart Prepaid Meter system, officials said the Ministry of Power had issued a notification in August 2021 directing replacement of all existing meters under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS). The new system enables consumers and MSPDCL officials to access consumption data, balance details and other information through mobile applications and web portals without physically checking the meters.

Officials added that the Smart Meter system has improved billing transparency, energy accounting and detection of power theft. Consumers can also monitor sanctioned load, tariff slabs, daily consumption and receive low-balance alerts through the Smart Meter application.

On queries regarding the installation drive being concentrated mainly in Imphal areas, MSPDCL stated that most prepaid meters installed between 2012 and 2016 have already crossed their guaranteed lifespan of six to seven years and may start malfunctioning due to prolonged use.

Addressing concerns over automatic disconnection due to overload, MSPDCL said that under the JERC for Manipur and Mizoram Supply Code Regulations Amendment issued in July 2022, consumers exceeding their sanctioned load will face automatic disconnection. Officials said consumers are allowed up to five instances of exceeding the sanctioned load, after which the connection will shift to temporary disconnection status until the sanctioned load is upgraded.

The press meet was attended by Executive Director (Commercial) Ayekpam Ibotombi, Executive Director (Technical) Kamei Gaikulung, General Manager (Commercial) Ngasepam Kirankumar, General Manager (Commercial) Chandramani Mangsattabam, and Project Manager of Polaris, Arambam Chingkhei.