Following a report aired by a local television channel on November 7 regarding the installation of Smart Electricity Meters in Dimapur, the Department of Power, Nagaland (DoPN) has issued a clarification outlining key facts and consumer information. The Department emphasized that all Smart Meter installations—both under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) and the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI)—are free of charge for existing consumers.
According to the Chief Engineer (D&R), Department of Power, Smart Meters installed under RDSS would initially operate in post-paid mode, meaning consumers would not be required to make any initial payments. The system would later transition to prepaid mode, for which consumers would be informed well in advance via SMS, email, or print media.
The Department has also urged all electricity consumers to update their contact details, as printed bills would be discontinued under the State’s digital migration to a paperless billing system.
For meters installed under the SASCI scheme, the Department clarified that although the meter installation is free, consumers would need to pay a nominal initial recharge amount (up to ₹500) to activate their prepaid accounts.
New Connections and Safety Requirements
The Department reiterated that new service connections, additional meters, or load changes require an application accompanied by a Wiring Completion and Test Report/Certificate issued by a licensed electrical contractor registered under the DoPN. Only registered contractors are authorized to issue such certificates, and they are not permitted to charge for them.
Consumers have been advised to engage only authorized contractors to ensure compliance with safety standards and prevent illegal practices.
The statement noted with concern that “many prospective consumers or property owners hire unauthorized electricians for internal wiring and later purchase test certificates from licensed contractors who have not carried out the wiring work.” Such actions, the Department warned, are illegal and promote corruption and unsafe electrical installations.
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The rates established by the Nagaland Electrical Contractor’s Association for Test Reports/Certificates are not legal and could result in disqualification of the contractor’s license, it further stated.
Highlighting the importance of Electrical Test Certificates, the Department explained that these ensure a property’s wiring, sockets, fuse boxes, and other electrical components comply with safety standards, thus helping to prevent electric shocks, fires, and accidents.
Ensuring safe electrical installations is crucial to preventing electric shocks, accidents, and fires, and is essential for compliance with the IE Act 2003, IR rules, and Supply Code, the Department said.
For multi-story or rental buildings, the Department stated that tenants may apply for separate Smart Meters, provided the application is accompanied by the required test certificate. The costs for accessories such as wires, cables, and MCBs must be borne by the consumers, though installation of the Smart Meters themselves remains free.
It said the Division/Sub-Division Office will review the submitted application for completeness and will issue the Smart Meters for free installation.
Inquiry Committee constituted
In light of allegations aired by the local TV channel, the Department has constituted a divisional-level inquiry committee to investigate the charges related to smart meter installations. The committee has been directed to submit its report by Monday, November 10, 2025.
“The Department assures our valued consumers and the public that if any officers or staff within the Department are found guilty of corrupt practices related to smart meter installations, appropriate disciplinary actions will be taken by both the Department and the Government,” the statement said.
It further urged media outlets and individuals to verify information directly with the Department before publishing or circulating reports that could create “confusion and unnecessary alarm among the public.”
The Department reaffirmed that this clarification has been issued “in the interest of public information and service,” and reiterated its commitment to maintaining transparency, consumer trust, and accountability in all its operations.
