Agartala, July 8: Tripura has officially launched a large-scale smart meter installation drive aimed at revolutionizing power consumption, improving billing accuracy, and enhancing service reliability. The initiative began on Tuesday with smart meters installed at the residences of the Chief Minister, Power Minister, and other key officials.
Power Minister Ratan Lal Nath described the move as a major step toward digital energy management and consumer empowerment. He said that out of over 10 lakh electricity consumers in the state, 90,000 have already adopted smart meters. The new phase will include installation at all ministerial homes, offices, and government establishments. Around 2,700 electricity department employees will also receive smart meters at their residences within the next week.
To monitor the rollout and meter performance, two new offices under Tripura State Electricity Corporation Limited (TSECL) will be operational after July 13. These centers will oversee the system’s efficiency, with special focus on the capital region.
Highlighting the advantages, Minister Nath said smart meters will provide real-time tracking of electricity usage through mobile apps and online platforms, eliminating billing errors and inflated charges. They will also send automatic alerts to the electricity department during outages, enabling faster response and improved service reliability.
Importantly, the meters are being installed free of charge. Consumers can even retain their old meters for comparison, allowing them to see the difference in performance and billing firsthand.
Addressing resistance from some consumer groups, Nath attributed the opposition to misinformation. “People will appreciate the benefits once they start using the smart meters,” he said. The department is conducting awareness campaigns to address concerns and ensure smooth adoption.
With innovation, accessibility, and public engagement at its core, Tripura’s transition to smart meters marks a significant stride toward a smarter, more efficient energy future.
