Patna: Bihar is at the forefront of changing the landscape of electric metering through rapid installations of Smart Prepaid Meters.

Under the dynamic leadership of Bihar State Power Holding Company Limited (BSPHCL) CMD Sanjeev Hans, a senior IAS officer, the smart meter installations have been picking pace and it has created a record by installing more than 24 lakh Smart Prepaid Meters till now.

This transformative initiative not only signifies a technological leap but also promises enhanced efficiency, transparency and consumer empowerment in managing electricity consumption.

"The state has created a record by installing about 24.35 lakh Smart Prepaid Meter, with 13.36 lakh in North Bihar alone. Plans are underway to install an additional 35.10 lakh Smart Prepaid Meters in 13 districts," Hans said, adding that the state has surpassed the target it had set in a short time. 

Hans added to monitor the progress of smart meter installations time to time review meetings are held. "The meetings help us build effective strategy and sort out any issues faced by our implementation partners," he said.

The state has also set ambitious targets to provide 4.79 lakh connections to farmers under the Mukhyamantri Vidyut Krishi Sambandh Yojana, aimed at boosting agricultural production. Hans reported that 3.75 lakh connections have already been granted, with farmers enjoying 12 hours of electricity supply for irrigation and 16 hours in case of insufficient rainfall, at an affordable rate of 70 paise per unit.

The Mukhyamantri Vidyut Krishi Sambandh Yojana has transformed the agriculture landscape and helped Bihar create records by massive production of foodgrains.

Highlighting the tremendous growth, Hans said that Bihar has significantly increased its electricity supply capacity from 700 MW to over 7000 MW, showcasing the state's strengthened infrastructure and the collaborative efforts of dedicated teams and consumers.

A notable milestone was reached on July 23, 2023, when Bihar witnessed a peak demand of 7576 MW, a demand that was effortlessly met.

The Bihar State Load Dispatch Centre's exceptional performance in ensuring the smooth operation of the power system earned it the prestigious LDC Excellence Awards 2023. Hans emphasized that revenue collection has seen a substantial increase, underscoring the state's commitment to providing ample power to consumers.

Furthermore, Hans said that Bihar faces no power shortages, with industrial connections being promptly provided once all necessary documentation and procedures are completed.

The success story of Bihar's power sector, from shortages to surplus, stands as a testament to effective governance, strategic planning and collaborative efforts towards a brighter and more electrified future for the state, Hans said.