UP Government Pauses Smart Meter Rollout, Announces Zero Balance Rule and Consumer Protections

For complaint redressal, special arrangements have been made through the toll-free number 1912. Consumers can also register complaints via the official website of Uttar Pradesh Power Corporation Ltd. and through a WhatsApp chatbot. In addition, regional helpline numbers have been issued.

For consumer awareness, a Smart Prepaid Meter Consumer Guide FAQ has been issued, providing factual details about the benefits of smart meters and addressing related misconceptions. A comprehensive awareness campaign is also being carried out through social, print and electronic media.

The government has ordered that no electricity connections will be disconnected on Sundays and public holidays, even if the balance turns negative. Officials have been asked to adopt a humane approach.

To ensure better communication, a five-level SMS alert system will be implemented. Under this system, the first alert will be sent when the balance reaches 30 percent, the second at 10 percent, the third when the balance is fully exhausted, the fourth one day before disconnection and the fifth after disconnection.

The minister announced relief for households where smart meters have been installed recently. There will be a transition period of 15 days followed by another 30 days, during which no electricity connection will be disconnected under any circumstances, giving consumers enough time to adjust to the new system.

During a review meeting held at Shakti Bhavan in Lucknow, the Uttar Pradesh government announced that the installation of new smart meters will be put on hold across the state with immediate effect. The halt will remain in place until a technical committee submits its report and it is examined by the government, with the stated aim of making the electricity system more transparent, effective and consumer-friendly.