The Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Ltd (MSEDCL) has addressed rising concerns from residents over the deployment of smart electricity meters, as opposition to installations grows in several areas due to issues related to billing, safety and technology adoption.
MSEDCL officials said they are engaging directly with consumers to clarify doubts and provide information on the benefits of smart metering, which include more accurate billing, real-time usage data, remote load control capability, and reduced meter reading errors. The utility also emphasised that smart meters are part of broader efforts to modernise the state’s power distribution system and improve service delivery.
Residents who have raised objections cited grievances such as unexpected billing increases, perceived electromagnetic exposure risks and lack of clear communication prior to installation. Consumer groups in some localities have called for a moratorium on mandatory installations until questions regarding data transparency, tariff impacts and technical performance are resolved.
In response, MSEDCL officials said that the smart meter rollout is being conducted in phases and that standard operating procedures include prior notices, installation consent options in certain cases, and dedicated customer service support to handle complaints or technical issues. The utility has also stated that regulatory guidelines governing smart meter deployment and billing changes remain under the oversight of the state electricity regulator.
To address safety concerns, MSEDCL has cited third-party certifications and compliance with national standards for smart meter technology, asserting that devices meet required electromagnetic emission and operational criteria. The company also said it is conducting community awareness programmes, helplines and doorstep support initiatives to assist consumers in understanding meter functionality and reading usage data.
Consumer rights advocates have welcomed the engagement but urged authorities to provide transparent performance data and independent audits to build trust. They noted that timely grievance redressal and robust customer education could help ease resistance and accelerate acceptance of modern metering systems.
The smart meter initiative forms part of a nationwide push by power distribution companies to upgrade infrastructure, reduce aggregate technical and commercial losses, and enable advanced demand-side management. As MSEDCL continues its rollout, officials said they will monitor consumer feedback and adapt communication strategies to address public concerns.
