Raipur: If you also believe that electricity bills rise after the installation of smart meters, this information is important for you. The Chhattisgarh State Power Distribution Company Limited (CSPDCL) has clarified that smart meters do not increase the bill; instead, they simply record accurate readings of actual electricity consumption. In other words, consumers are billed only for the electricity they actually use. According to the electricity department, the key feature of a smart meter is its ability to provide real-time, accurate readings. This eliminates the possibility of errors in meter readings or the issuance of estimated bills. Consumers can track their electricity consumption every 30 minutes via the ‘Mor Bijli’ app and identify exactly how much power specific appliances are consuming.
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So, why do electricity bills increase?
CSPDCL states that increased electricity consumption—not the smart meter itself—is the primary reason for higher bills. Consumption rises, particularly during the scorching heat of April, May, and June, due to the heavy use of air conditioners, coolers, heaters, and other electrical appliances. Furthermore, as consumption increases, consumers move into higher tariff slabs, naturally resulting in a higher bill.
The department clarified that domestic electricity bills are calculated based on prescribed tariff slabs. The current rates are as follows:
0 to 100 units: ₹4.40 per unit
101 to 200 units: ₹4.50 per unit
201 to 400 units: ₹6.00 per unit
401 to 600 units: ₹7.00 per unit
Above 600 units: ₹8.80 per unit
As electricity consumption rises, consumers move into higher slabs, and the bill increases proportionately. This has nothing to do with the functioning of the smart meter. Keep an eye on the ‘Half-Electricity’ scheme
The department stated that eligible consumers continue to receive the benefits of the ‘Half-Electricity’ scheme as long as their monthly consumption remains within 400 units. However, if consumption exceeds 400 units, the scheme’s benefits may be affected, resulting in a higher bill. The electricity department also noted that investigations into complaints regarding smart meters have not confirmed any technical malfunctions in the meters so far.
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Consumers with any grievances can contact the 1912 helpline. The department has urged consumers to make the most of smart meters and the ‘Mor Bijli App’ to monitor their electricity consumption, and to take steps towards further reducing their electricity bills—or even bringing them down to zero, subject to eligibility—by availing the benefits of the ‘Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar Yojana’.
