Lucknow: The Uttar Pradesh government has ordered a detailed investigation into complaints of overbilling linked to smart electricity meters, following concerns raised by consumers. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath directed the Energy Department to form an expert committee to examine the issue and ensure relief for affected consumers.
He also emphasized that no consumer should face disconnection if the fault is not on their side.
Focus on Transparent and Reliable Power Supply
During a high-level review meeting of the energy sector, the Chief Minister reiterated that providing uninterrupted, transparent, and quality electricity supply remains the government’s top priority.
He directed officials to strengthen:
- Smart metering systems
- Reduction of line losses
- Digitalization of services
- Revenue improvement mechanisms
The aim is to ensure that reforms benefit the end consumer directly.
Expert Panel to Review Overbilling Issues
To address rising complaints, the government will constitute an expert committee to investigate smart meter billing issues.
Key directives include:
- Ensuring accurate billing for consumers
- Quick and fair grievance redressal
- Strengthening consumer trust in smart metering systems
- Preventing unnecessary disconnection of electricity
Officials have also been instructed to conduct field inspections and resolve issues promptly.
Massive Growth in Power Consumer Base
The review meeting highlighted significant growth in the electricity sector:
- Consumer base increased from 1.65 crore (2017) to 3.71 crore (2026)
- Power demand rose by 80%
- Energy sales increased by 63%
- Total energy sales reached 1.27 lakh million units
- Connected load crossed 84,000 MW
Domestic users now account for 87% of consumers, while commercial and industrial users contribute the highest revenue share.
Strengthening Distribution Network and Infrastructure
The Chief Minister directed improvements in electricity infrastructure, including:
- Faster transformer replacement
- Quality compliance for new poles
- Underground cabling of power lines in phases
- Improved DISCOM performance and national ranking
He also emphasized regular maintenance to ensure fault-free electricity supply.
Smart Meter and Grid Modernization Progress
The state has already installed:
- Over 84 lakh smart meters
- Nearly 95% feeder metering coverage
Officials reported significant reduction in transformer failures due to preventive maintenance measures.
Rural Electrification and Agricultural Reforms
The government has directed expansion of rural electrification to ensure electricity access in small habitations.
Key focus areas include:
- Power supply to hamlets with at least five households
- Separation of agricultural feeders
- Resolution of overloading issues
Digital Complaint System and Single Window Model
To improve consumer services, the government is strengthening digital platforms such as:
- 1912 toll-free helpline
- Online portals
- Social media and WhatsApp complaint systems
A single-window system will also be expanded to speed up service delivery.
Expansion of Power Generation Capacity
The Chief Minister reviewed ongoing and upcoming energy projects, including:
- Thermal capacity: 12,247 MW
- Hydropower capacity: 526.4 MW
- ₹3,143 crore profit recorded between 2021–2026
Upcoming projects include:
- 660 MW Ghatampur unit
- 5,600 MW expansion across multiple thermal projects
He directed officials to ensure readiness for peak summer demand.
Push for Renewable and Green Energy Projects
The government is accelerating clean energy initiatives:
- Over 4.60 lakh rooftop solar systems installed (1,560 MW) under PM Surya Ghar scheme
- Solar pump installations under PM-KUSUM scheme
- Expansion of green hydrogen projects
- Development of bio-energy and EV charging infrastructure
These efforts aim to position the state as a leader in renewable energy adoption.
Strict but Sensitive Action in Electricity Enforcement
The Chief Minister also instructed officials to ensure that enforcement and vigilance actions in the power sector are carried out with transparency and sensitivity, so that genuine consumers are not harassed.
