Lucknow: In a significant policy shift aimed at easing consumer billing concerns, the Uttar Pradesh government has decided to discontinue the smart prepaid electricity meter system across the state and convert all smart meters into postpaid mode.
Energy Minister Arvind Kumar Sharma announced that the decision has been taken under the directions of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, prioritizing consumer convenience in electricity services. He confirmed that all smart meters installed under the RDSS (Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme) will now operate exclusively in postpaid mode.
Electricity Bills After Usage, Not in Advance
Under the revised system, consumers will now receive electricity bills after usage instead of prepaying for power consumption. The electricity consumption for May 2026 will be billed in June 2026 under the new postpaid mechanism.
The minister stated that bills will be issued by the 10th of every month and will be delivered digitally through SMS and WhatsApp to ensure timely communication and transparency.
Digital Billing and Alternative Support Systems
To improve accessibility, the government has strengthened multiple billing channels. Consumers will be able to access their bills via WhatsApp chatbots and the state’s 1912 electricity helpline.
In areas facing network or communication issues, billing will be carried out through manual readings by AMISP agencies to ensure uninterrupted service delivery.
Officials also confirmed that all new electricity connections in Uttar Pradesh will now be issued under the smart postpaid system only.
Security Deposit Adjustment and Payment Relief
For consumers previously under the prepaid system, the security deposit will now be adjusted in four equal monthly installments, in accordance with the Electricity Supply Code 2005 and Cost Data Book 2026.
To provide financial relief, postpaid consumers will continue to receive a 15-day payment window after bill generation, followed by a 7-day disconnection notice period in case of non-payment. Late payment charges will be applicable as per tariff regulations.
Easy Installment Plans for Pending Bills
The government has also introduced structured installment relief for pending dues. Domestic consumers will be allowed to clear outstanding electricity bills up to 30 April 2026 in 10 easy installments.
Other consumer categories will be eligible for payment in three installments—split as 40%, 30%, and 30% respectively.
Special Camps for Complaint Redressal
To address grievances related to smart meters and billing, the state will organize special assistance camps from 15 May 2026 to 30 June 2026 at Executive Engineer and Sub-Divisional Officer offices.
The 1912 helpline service will also be strengthened to ensure faster resolution of consumer complaints.
Government’s Focus on Consumer Relief
Energy Minister Arvind Kumar Sharma emphasized that the move is aimed at simplifying electricity billing, improving transparency, and reducing financial stress on consumers across Uttar Pradesh.
He added that the transition to a uniform postpaid smart metering system will streamline operations across all power distribution corporations, including Purvanchal, Madhyanchal, Dakshinanchal, Paschimanchal Vidyut Vitran Nigam, and KESCO Kanpur.
