KSEB delays monthly billing, awaits Smart Meter implementation

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: KSEB has decided to maintain its bi-monthly billing cycle for now, holding off on the switch to monthly billing until the full implementation of the Smart Meter project across the state. The decision, prompted by concerns over potential cost increases, was made in response to growing calls for monthly billing during a public hearing held by the Electricity Regulatory Commission.

While there is demand for a shift to monthly billing, KSEB officials have cautioned that such a move would likely lead to an increase in costs and electricity tariffs for consumers. This is due to the need for additional manpower to support the billing process, which would also raise operating expenses.

Currently, each KSEB section office operates with one meter reader, one overseer, and two linemen for every 60 consumers. A shift to monthly billing would require doubling the workforce, adding pressure to salary and operational costs. An additional ₹9 has already been added to current electricity bills to cover such expenses and further increases would be reflected in monthly billing. Moreover, the Electricity Regulatory Commission is unlikely to approve the reappointment of new employees, as staffing levels have already exceeded permissible limits.

Smart Meter project to reduce costs

KSEB is optimistic that the Smart Meter project, expected to be fully implemented by 2025, will alleviate many of these issues. The state government has already accepted the proposal for smart meters in principle and has called for tenders to implement the project in three phases.

Once smart meters are in place, the need for additional meter readers will decrease significantly, leading to reduced operational costs. Existing meter readers will also become redundant. Moreover, consumers will benefit from the ability to pay their bills online monthly, streamlining the payment process.

Key statistics

Total consumers in Kerala: 1.39 crore

Currently billed bi-monthly: 1.05 crore domestic consumers

Currently billed monthly: 1.46 lakh industrial consumers

For now, KSEB has made it clear that monthly billing will not be introduced this year, ensuring the existing bi-monthly system remains in place until the smart meter rollout is complete.