Nagpur: Amid growing complaints over steep electricity bills following the installation of smart meters, MSEDCL has claimed that the new metering system is 100% technically accurate and that the increase in bills is linked to higher electricity consumption rather than any fault in the meters.In a statement issued on Friday, the power utility said its technical team conducted detailed inspections of smart meters belonging to consumers in the Bhagwan Nagar subdivision who reported unusually high bills. Using its specialised Accu-Check system, MSEDCL claimed that the meters were found to be functioning accurately, ruling out technical defects as the reason for the higher bills.According to MSEDCL, the rise in electricity bills is primarily due to increased power consumption resulting from changing lifestyles. The utility said growing use of electric vehicles, induction cooktops, air conditioners, coolers and other electrical appliances has significantly increased household electricity usage. It also pointed to old internal wiring, faulty earthing and electricity leakage from appliances as factors that can contribute to higher consumption.The utility advised consumers to use high-power appliances between 9am and 5pm to avail 85 paise per unit TOD benefit, get an electrical audit of their home wiring carried out and have their earthing systems inspected by qualified electricians to avoid unnecessary power loss.MSEDCL further said smart meters provide consumers with real-time information on electricity consumption, allowing them to monitor usage more effectively and manage their power bills.Appealing to consumers not to believe rumours, the utility urged those with billing-related grievances to approach the nearest MSEDCL office. It said its technical teams are prepared to inspect meters in the presence of consumers or their authorised representatives whenever required.
