Patna: REC Limited, along with South Bihar Power Distribution Company Limited (SBPDCL), North Bihar Power Distribution Company Limited (NBPDCL), and PTC India Ltd, has signed a tripartite agreement to enable third-party verification of smart meter installations under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS).
The agreement was formally signed at Vidyut Bhawan in Patna, marking a key step toward improving transparency, accountability, and consumer confidence in India’s ongoing power sector reforms.
Independent Verification to Ensure Accuracy and Reliability
The initiative is part of a pilot programme launched by the Ministry of Power to independently assess the quality and performance of smart meter installations.
Under this framework:
- Reputed independent agencies will conduct verification
- Installation quality and operational performance will be evaluated
- Consumers will benefit from improved trust and transparency
Officials said the move will help ensure that smart meters function accurately and efficiently across the distribution network.
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Smart Metering Key to Power Sector Modernisation
Smart meter deployment is a central component of the RDSS scheme, aimed at transforming India’s power distribution infrastructure.
Key benefits of smart metering include:
- Improved billing efficiency
- Reduction in power theft and losses
- Real-time monitoring of electricity consumption
- Enhanced operational efficiency for utilities
Nationwide Rollout Gains Momentum
As part of the national programme:
- Around 19.58 crore smart meters have been sanctioned
- Approximately 4.3 crore meters have already been installed
The large-scale rollout is expected to significantly improve the financial and operational health of power distribution companies.
Bihar Pilot to Serve as National Model
The third-party verification initiative in Bihar is expected to act as a pilot model for other states.
By introducing independent audits, the government aims to:
- Strengthen accountability in implementation
- Improve service quality
- Build greater consumer trust in utility services
Officials indicated that similar verification mechanisms could be expanded nationwide based on the success of this initiative.
About REC Limited
REC Limited is a leading public sector enterprise under the Ministry of Power, Government of India, focused on financing and promoting power sector projects. The company plays a key role in supporting transmission, distribution, and renewable energy initiatives, contributing significantly to India’s energy infrastructure development and reforms.
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