The Indian government clarified in the Lok Sabha on Thursday that the installation of prepaid electricity meters is not mandatory for consumers. The statement was made by the Minister of Power, R.K. Singh, in response to a supplementary question during Question Hour.
Minister Singh emphasized that the government's focus is on promoting energy efficiency and consumer choice, not on enforcing compulsory meter installation. He stated that the existing guidelines allow for various metering options, and consumers can opt for prepaid meters based on their preference and convenience.
The clarification comes amid public discussions and some misconceptions regarding the nationwide rollout of smart and prepaid metering systems under various government schemes. The minister's response aimed to address concerns about potential compulsion, reiterating the voluntary nature of the adoption.
