THIRUVANANTHAPURAM:KSEB) is opening outlets at its circle offices for selling electricity meters to consumers who wish to install the meters at their own cost. In doing so, they can avoid paying rent and security deposit on electricity meters when applying for new electricity connections.
The outlets will start functioning on January 1, 2016.
In the first phase, the KSEB outlets will supply single phase meters. They will also replace damaged meters, a KSEB spokesperson said. An electronic single phase meter with ISI mark will cost Rs 845 at the outlets. Though a provision exists for consumers to buy their own electricity meters, availability of good quality meters has been proving to be a problem. At present, the meter is provided by KSEB when a new connection is given. Though the consumer does not have to pay for it, he has to remit a monthly rent of Rs 6. In the event of the meter getting damaged, the KSEB replaces it at its own cost.
The KSEB will assess the response to the new scheme for six months and, if found successful, will extend the facility to three-phase meters also.
The new outlets are expected to address the issue of low-quality meters that has been plaguing the KSEB for decades. During the 2015-16 financial year, the KSEB expects to replace 10.5 lakh damaged meters in the state, according to details submitted by the Power Department in the Assembly in June. Till June 30, the power company had replaced 2.54 lakh meters.
■ The outlets, to be opened at KSEB circle offices, will start functioning on Jan 1, 2016
■ By installing the meters at their own cost, the consumers can avoid paying rent and security deposit on electricity meters
■ In the first phase, the KSEB outlets will supply single phase meters
■ An electronic single phase meter with ISI mark will cost `845 at the outlet