3-phase electricity meters still a far-fetched dream; KSEB stands to incur loss of crores

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Even three months after collecting money from consumers, the electricity board have failed in their mission to install 3-phase electricity meters in the state. They are now reasoning this for the financial crisis that has seeped into the state. There is also a shortage of solar meters which are being demanded by people. 3-phase electricity meters used by a large chunk of domestic consumers have been in high demand in recent times.

Consumers preferring 3-phase over single phase and owners of damaged meters have been waiting for at least two months. It is reported that 1.40 lakh meters, including single phase, are damaged in the state. Due to this, KSEB will incur a loss of crores.

Common houses use single-phase meters. A three-phase meter will be required in houses with high electricity consumption, that includes homes functioning on AC with a capacity of more than two tons. Single-phase users can also switch to 3-phase. Equipment that draws more power loads if operated in a single phase can wreak danger to homes. Minding this danger, many people are now ready to switch to 3-phase meters.

Single-phase meter costs around 1200 rupees while a 3-phase is more than 4000 rupees. Even after paying this amount and completing the testing charge of 555 rupees, the consumers are made to wait. If the installation gets late, KSEB will provisionally charge the amount according to the last meter reading. Then the method is to monitor the consumption after installing the meter take the average and then pay the dues.

"An order has been placed for 50,000 three-phase meters. After receiving this, it will be tested in the meter testing standard laboratory of Palakkad Electric Inspectorate and distributed to ensure quality. We are trying to get the meter available in a few days. Shortage of meters is reported only in some districts." - KSEB