Goa is reportedly implementing a smart metering project to replace existing electricity meters with smart meters for over 7.4 lakh consumers. The project is expected to be implemented in a phased manner over two and a half years starting in 2025-26. In the first phase the project will be implemented only for commercial establishments and later extended to domestic consumers. The smart meters will use GPRS technology for communication and have several advantages. They will provide real-time data for accurate billing. They will help curb electricity theft and leakages. By being connected through a web-based monitoring system, prepaid smart meters enable consumers to optimize their electricity consumption. In case of network disruption there will be a need for manual reading. Smart meters can malfunction, leading to inaccurate readings, and consumers may not be aware of it. In Goa the common man, especially the pensioners, may not be in a position to make pre-payments for electricity and hence will have to live without electricity till the smart meter is recharged. More importantly what happens to the unpaid electricity bills which run into crores of rupees once the switch-over to smart meters takes place?
