In a bid which could indirectly benefit the penalty scheme on power outages, Delhi’s distribution companies are now adopting new Smart Meter Reading Devices (SMRDs). The devices, as discoms claim, would ensure exact meter reading and timely distribution of electricity bills.
Tata Power Delhi Distribution Limited (TPDDL) which supplies power in North Delhi areas is going to introduce SMRD which is an android based efficient meter reading solution installed on smart phones. Easy to operate, SMRD ensures accuracy in meter reading, reduction in reading cycle time and prompts for capturing a screen shot of the meter reading in case of anomaly in the reading.
“Its wireless mechanism supports online data transfer through GPRS/3G. Its GPS feature also facilitates online route tracking and monitors the performance of field staff. It can be easily upgradable to the latest version and can be utilized for comprehensive meter inspection reports, meter installation and disconnection/re-connection activities etc,” said a discom official.
Through SMRD an on-site instant SMS can also be sent to the consumers for providing accessibility to meters in case the meter found under lock and key. The device will also help in proper bill distribution as it can capture digital signatures from consumers in the touch pad of mobile and the proof of delivery (POD) can be uploaded in system for future reference, they said.
In addition to the above, it is an environment friendly technology intervention which limits paper wastage and aids in the reduction of carbon footprints. “At present, TPDDL is using this technology for meter reading and bill distribution for around 7.20 lakh consumers and will introduce the same for remaining consumers 5.40 in the next 2-3months,” said a discom official.
