Smart Meters Mandatory in Karnataka from July 1: Features, Recharge Process, and Benefits Explained

A smart meter is a digital electricity meter equipped with GPRS/RF-based communication systems and Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI). Unlike traditional meters, smart meters:

Record electricity usage in real time

Transmit data to BESCOM servers via cloud connectivity

Enable two-way communication between the consumer and the utility provider

Support prepaid recharge and instant reconnection after bill payment

How to Recharge a Smart Meter

Recharging your smart meter is simple and can be done through multiple platforms:

Mobile App: BESCOM’s official app allows users to monitor usage, voltage, and power factor, and recharge instantly

Online Portals: Platforms like Bajaj Finserv and other BBPS-enabled services support smart meter top-ups

Authorized Outlets: BESCOM-authorized centers in your area also offer recharge and support services

Offline Payment Centers: For those without digital access, select local centers accept cash payments for recharge

Consumers can prepay for a specific duration, and in case of disconnection, power is restored immediately upon recharge.

Why This Matters

This initiative began in urban areas like Bengaluru on February 15, 2025, and is now expanding to rural Karnataka. It offers:

Accurate billing with no manual meter reading

Energy efficiency by helping users track and reduce consumption

Faster grievance redressal through a soon-to-be-launched BESCOM digital portal

With smart meters becoming the new norm, Karnataka is taking a significant step toward a transparent, efficient, and consumer-friendly power system. If you're applying for a new or temporary rural connection, make sure to purchase your smart meter from a BESCOM-authorized outlet and stay connected—smartly.