To cut the delay in obtaining new single and three-phase connections owing to shortage of electric meters, Tamil Nadu Power Generation and Distribution Corporation (Tangedco) has decided to procure 14 lakh single and three phase meters to distribute among consumers.
According to a senior Tangedco official, the purchase order has been issued for procuring 13 lakh single-phase meters and one lakh three phase meters.
“After the tendering process, we have shortlisted four companies to supply single phase meters and five to supply three phase meters. We will start distribution of meters among consumers shortly,” the official said.
Priority would be given to replacing defective meters as the corporation has been losing considerable revenue due to faulty devices, the official said.
He added that the provision of meters for new service connections would be done later. The decision of the corporation to procure and distribute the meters on its own came in the wake of growing demand and consumer complaints that the private companies were not able to supply the meters through designated shops.
The Tangedco had allowed the consumers to purchase the meters from designated shops following the direction of the Tamil Nadu Electricity Regulatory Commission (TNERC).
“The demand for the meters is very high and the recognised outlets have been issuing tokens and consumers have to wait for two weeks to get the meters,” said Roy Rozario, general secretary of People’s Voice.
Every year, at least seven to eight lakh new service connections are given and 1.5 lakh to two lakh defective meters have to be replaced. “We are not able to procure the meters for the last one year due to various court cases.
This resulted in a huge backlog for meter supply,” the official said, adding that once the corporation started providing meters, the demand and supply gap would come down.