APERC Amends General Terms And Conditions Of Supply To Accelerate Smart Meter Adoption In Andhra Pradesh

Posted On - 11 March, 2025 • By - King Stubb & Kasiva

Introduction

The Andhra Pradesh Electricity Regulatory Commission (APERC) has made substantial amendments[1] to its General Terms and Conditions of Supply (GTCS) to expedite the implementation of smart meters in the state. The amendments are in line with national guidelines from the Central Electricity Authority (CEA) and the Ministry of Power (MoP), which require the installation of smart prepayment meters in place of traditional meters. The amendments, which were completed on February 24, 2025, seek to upgrade energy infrastructure, improve consumer transparency, and increase operational efficiency for distribution companies (DISCOMs).

Explanation (Key Points)

  1. Regulatory Backdrop and National Mandates
    • The CEA’s 2019 and 2022 amendments to the Installation and Operation of Meters Regulations require:
      • Smart prepayment meters for all consumers in areas with communication networks, adhering to Indian Standards (IS).
      • Automatic remote reading or smart meters for high-capacity consumer connections.
      • Prepayment meters in areas without communication networks, subject to state regulatory approval.
    • The MoP’s 2021 notification set timelines for replacing existing meters, pushing states like Andhra Pradesh to accelerate compliance.
  2. APDISCOMs’ Role and Public Consultation
    • State DISCOMs (APSPDCL, APCPDCL, APEPDCL) formally requested APERC to amend the GTCS, citing the need to align with national standards.
    • APERC published draft amendments in January 2025, inviting stakeholder feedback. The deadline was extended to January 29, 2025, after requests from DISCOMs and objectors.
  3. Key Amendments to GTCS
    • New Definitions:
      • Smart Meter (IS 16444 compliant), Prepayment Meter, Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI), and AMI Service Provider were added to standardize terminology.
    • Mandatory Smart Meter Installation (Clause 7.1.1):
      • DISCOMs must install smart meters with two-way communication, security mechanisms, and compatibility with AMI/AMR systems.
      • Consumers may opt to install their own smart meters, but DISCOMs will charge monthly rentals as per tariff orders.
    • Enhanced Consumer Access and Data Security (Clause 7.4.1):
      • Daily meter readings and real-time energy consumption data access via websites, apps, or SMS.
      • Data protection under the IT Act, 2000, and CEA guidelines to safeguard consumer privacy.
  4. Implications and Benefits
    • Operational Efficiency: Reduced commercial losses due to prepayment and real-time monitoring.
    • Consumer Empowerment: Transparency in billing, prepayment flexibility, and reduced disputes.
    • Infrastructure Modernization: AMI integration enables DISCOMs to manage demand, detect theft, and improve grid reliability.

Conclusion

APERC’s amendments are a turning point for Andhra Pradesh’s power industry, putting the state in alignment with India’s overall smart metering aspirations. By making smart meters compulsory, improving data availability, and establishing strong security standards, the reforms seek to develop a sustainable, consumer-driven electricity system. Not only do the changes address DISCOMs’ operational issues but also provide consumers with increased agency over their energy consumption. As Andhra Pradesh speeds up its smart meter installation, the state is set to become a model for efficient and transparent power supply in India.

[1] https://aperc.gov.in/admin/upload/ProceedingsamendmentsGTCS.pdf