Delhi power meters inflate bills 2.5 pc: Competition panel

Consumers may finally get some answers about the mystery behind their power meter's speed, which they often suspect causes inflated electricity bills. The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has found that more than 90 per cent of the meters in the city, installed by discoms, show 2.5 per cent more than the actual reading.

In its investigation report, the CCI has found the Anil Ambani group-owned BSES and the Tata group-owned NDPL guilty of indulging in anti-competitive practices by abusing their dominant position in the meter market.

The investigation report goes on to say that "more than 90 per cent of the meters are running 2.5 per cent more than the actual reading which means that the total turnover of these companies is 2.5 per cent extra owing to the extra bills charged from customers due to faulty meters," sources told The Indian Express.

"These discoms have been found guilty of extra, illegal overcharging on account of anti-competitive practices," the sources said.

The issue of faulty meters came up last year in September when an aggrieved customer knocked the doors of the CCI, alleging that the meters installed by the discoms were faulty and demanded a penalty to the extent of 10 per cent of their average turnover for their monopoly-like behaviour. According to the complainant, the companies purchase and install the meters on their own and consumers are not allowed to buy the BIS standard manufactured meters.

When contacted, a BSES spokesperson said, "CCI has issued a notice to all Delhi discoms for alleged violation of section 3 and 4 of Competition Act asking them to file reply/objection by 31 March. Discoms have sought more time".

An NDPL spokesperson said they had received a notice from the CCI and were weighing various legal opinions on the issue. A ministry official said this may pave the way for bringing in genuine competition in the power sector.