Smart meter installation: KSEB begins rollout--timeline and what consumers should expect

Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) announced on its official social media handle that it has begun installing smart meters following a distinctive alternative model. The pilot phase started on 7 August 2025 with installations at two government connections in Thiruvananthapuram and seven feeder meters at the Kalamassery 220 KV substation.

How is the smart meter rollout progressing?

According to KSEB, the rollout began with government offices, high-tension (HT) consumers, distribution transformers, and feeders at 11 KV and 22 KV levels. Around 1.8 lakh smart meters are planned for the initial phase, primarily single-phase meters in government offices and feeders at substations.

Testing is currently underway for 50,000 single-phase meters. Additionally, 1,000 of the 3,000 feeder meters have already been delivered to KSEB, with the remainder expected by September 2025.

Who will get smart meters, and by when?

The KSEB communique states that government consumers and feeders have been prioritised, with plans to complete installations for these groups by November 2025. Transformer border meters are scheduled for installation by March 2026, and HT consumer meters by August 2026.

At present, smart meters are not being installed for regular domestic consumers, but plans for future phases are in development.

What makes Kerala’s approach distinctive?

KSEB explained that unlike most Indian states adopting the TOTEX (total expenditure) model, Kerala is implementing a phased CAPEX (capital expenditure) model to reduce costs. A tender was floated for 3 lakh smart meters, with contracts awarded to two companies for the lowest bids — among the most competitive rates in the country.

What is the overall timeline?

KSEB’s work order requires installation completion (excluding HT consumers) by 31 March 2026 and HT meters by August 2026. The maintenance period will extend for 72 months post-installation.

This phased and cost-efficient approach is aimed to improve energy management and enable a broader smart meter rollout in Kerala.