PANAJI
The Electricity Department’s ambitious smart meter project has picked up pace, and nearly one lakh installations have already been completed across Goa, according to Superintending Engineer (SE) Mayur Hede, who confirmed that the rollout, executed by vendor Digi Smart Networks Pvt Ltd, is progressing well.
“We first completed installing smart meters on all our own receiving and distribution installations of the grid. Then we began with government sector consumers and simultaneously began installing them for private consumers,” Hede said, outlining the phased approach.
August 2027 deadline
The department has set an August 2027 deadline to finish installing smart meters for all 7.5 lakh consumers in the State. The project, part of the national Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS), is aimed at modernising power distribution, improving billing accuracy, and giving consumers real-time control over their electricity usage.
Hede emphasised that while the rollout is mandatory in principle, the department is adopting a patient approach in areas where it is facing resistance. “We will not forcibly install them. Where there is stiff resistance, we will hold back and take time to convince those opposing,” he said.
With the project crossing its first major milestone, the focus will now shift to building trust and ensuring smooth adoption as the State moves towards a smarter electricity grid.
