Consumers to get prepaid and postpaid options
Punjab Newsline, Chandigarh-
Haryana Energy Minister, Anil Vij today said that in the first phase, smart meters will be installed at the residences of government officers, employees, legislators, MPs, ministers and the Chief Minister. Subsequently, the initiative will be extended to the general public. He further informed that tenders for the installation of smart meters will be issued soon.
While interacting with media persons today in Chandigarh, Vij said that electricity consumers will be offered both prepaid and postpaid options. Just like mobile connections where consumers can choose between prepaid and postpaid, electricity meters will also provide this flexibility to households.
He said that power defaulters in the state owe approximately Rs.7,500 crore in outstanding electricity bills. He said that earlier directions were issued to Superintending Engineers and senior officers to ensure prompt recovery of the outstanding amount. A meeting will be held on this subject and reports will be sought from the officers, he added.
He further informed that several dues-related cases are pending in courts, and the department has been directed to expedite legal action. Regarding arrears in government buildings and institutions, Sh. Vij said that strict recovery will be ensured from all, including government establishments. Any deliberate delay in payments will invite action as per law.
The Energy Minister said that land has been identified for setting up solar power houses in villages, and this will be started on a pilot basis. If the total electricity load of a village is calculated and a solar power house of the same capacity is established, villages can become self-reliant in power. This will also make electricity more affordable, as solar power is cost-effective.