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Key Points

BESCOM has announced that smart meters will be compulsory for all new and temporary electricity connections in rural Karnataka starting July 1. These meters allow real-time usage tracking and instant bill payments through a mobile app. The move follows KERC’s 2024 guidelines and expands the initiative beyond Bengaluru’s urban areas. BESCOM is also developing a digital portal to streamline consumer grievance redressal.

Key Points: BESCOM Makes Smart Meters Mandatory for Rural Karnataka Connections

  • Smart meters mandatory for new rural connections from July 1
  • Users can monitor real-time usage via mobile app
  • BESCOM launching digital grievance redressal portal
  • KERC guidelines drive phased smart meter rollout
2 min read

Karnataka: BESCOM makes smart meters mandatory for new, temporary connections in rural areas from July 1

Karnataka's BESCOM mandates smart meters for new rural connections from July 1, expanding its digital power monitoring initiative beyond Bengaluru.

"KERC had issued guidelines on smart meter implementation on March 6, 2024, and installations have since been carried out in phases – BESCOM Official Statement"

Bengaluru, June 28

Starting from July 1, the Bengaluru Electricity Supply Company (BESCOM) has made it mandatory for all new and temporary electricity connections in rural areas under its jurisdiction to have smart meter installations, as mandated by the Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC).

According to an official statement from the company, smart meter deployment in the urban areas of BESCOM's jurisdiction, including Bengaluru city, commenced on February 15, 2025. With this latest directive, the initiative is now being extended to BESCOM's rural regions also.

Applicants for new or temporary electricity connections can purchase smart meters from BESCOM-authorised outlets and proceed with connection formalities, according to the statement.

"KERC had issued guidelines on smart meter implementation on March 6, 2024, and installations have since been carried out in phases," the release added.

Smart meters, which differ from traditional models, are equipped with a GPRS/RF-based communication system for data collection and offer server and cloud connectivity.

They utilise Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) technology, which enables direct communication between consumers and BESCOM by gathering electricity usage data. Users can monitor real-time electricity usage, voltage, and power factor through a mobile app and access recharge options. The release stated that people can make advance payments and recharge for their desired duration, allowing them to use electricity as needed. During a power outage, electricity can be restored immediately upon payment of the bill.

BESCOM is also set to launch a digital portal aimed at enhancing transparency and efficiency in the consumer grievance redressal process, as announced by N Sivashankar, Managing Director of BESCOM, in May.

The MD was addressing a workshop organised jointly by the Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC) and BESCOM, or the office bearers and members of the Consumer Grievance Redressal Forum (CGRF) at the KEB Engineers Association Hall.

"To strengthen consumer rights and improve accountability, a dedicated digital platform is being developed for managing consumer complaints. The Chief General Manager of Corporate Affairs has been entrusted with overseeing the grievance redressal process," Sivashankar said.

He added that, as directed by the KERC Chairman, CGRFS has been constituted at the district level, comprising a Superintendent Engineer, an Executive Engineer, and independent members.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Shreya B
Good initiative but BESCOM should first fix the frequent power cuts in my village near Tumkur. What's the use of smart meters if there's no electricity for 8 hours daily? 😒
A
Arjun K
The mobile app feature is excellent! My uncle in Bengaluru has been using it and says it's very convenient to track usage and pay bills. Hope they provide good training to rural consumers who may not be tech-savvy.
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Priya S
Concerned about the cost burden on farmers. Many small farmers are already struggling with loans. Government should provide subsidies for these smart meters in agricultural connections.
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Vikram M
Digital grievance portal is much needed! Current system takes months to resolve complaints. Hope this brings some accountability to BESCOM officials who never respond to our complaints.
K
Kavya N
While the technology is good, I'm worried about privacy. Who will have access to our electricity usage data? BESCOM should clarify data protection measures clearly.

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