PANAJI
In a major relief to the State electricity department, Goa Human Rights Commission (GHRC) has recommended continuing to install smart meters across the State, ruling that the ongoing replacement of existing electricity meters does not amount to a violation of consumers’ human rights.
In its inquiry report dated October 16, the Commission said smart meter installation was mandated under the statutory framework of the Electricity Act, 2003, and that there was no material to establish that the implementation of the scheme violated consumers’ fundamental rights. The Commission also stressed the need to create adequate public awareness about smart meters.
However, while allowing the rollout to continue, the Commission recommended that the department replace existing working meters only after issuing notice to consumers. The notice can be endorsed on electricity bills area-wise or issued by following the procedure prescribed under Section 171 of the Electricity Act, 2003.
“The Commission is of the view that the installation of smart meters can be continued in Goa and adequate awareness needs to be created in respect of smart meters. The Commission finds that under Regulation 6, the ownership of the meters installed at the consumer’s premises for supply of electricity vests in the distribution licensee and the consumer is not the owner of the meter. It is the distribution licensee or the Advanced Metering Infrastructure Service Provider (AMISP) who owns the meter as an apparatus forming part of the distribution network in its entirety,” the Commission observed.
“The Commission does not find any human rights violations in the process of change of meters as the department is providing electricity continuously though there may be infractions in implementation of the scheme,” it added further.
The Commission had taken suo motu cognisance of a newspaper report, which raised concerns over the mandatory installation of smart meters and the manner in which the rollout was being implemented. It subsequently sought a reply from the department and appointed amicus curiae to assist it in examining the matter.
The Commission said that it is not reviewing the policy decision of the Government but is only looking into the issue regarding the manner in which the implementation is being carried out and whether it amounts to a violation of human rights.
The inquiry examined concerns over consumer consent, privacy and the collection of electricity consumption data, as well as allegations that smart meters and their meshed network technology could pose health risks due to radiation.
On privacy concerns, the Commission held that the information collected was connected with electricity consumption and found no material to establish that it included other personal information, observing that the allegations were based on assumptions.
It also noted that there was no data or expert report available to substantiate claims that smart meters and the network technology could cause health hazards to humans, animals, plants, birds, butterflies and other pollinators.
The Commission observed that electricity is a basic amenity protected under Article 21 of the Constitution and that it had examined whether the manner of implementation of the smart meter scheme violated human rights, rather than reviewing the government’s policy decision itself.
The department has been asked to submit its comments, including details of action taken or proposed, by December 18.
