Companies upset over smart meter tender

Industry flags blacklisted companies, flawed payment schedule and obsolete technology

The rollout of smart meters is facing questions over the tender, selection of suppliers, payment mechanism and the companies involved.
 
Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL) last month issued the first tender for 5 million smart meters. Indian Telephone Industries (ITI) emerged the winner by quoting Rs 2,507 per meter. Sources said ITI thereafter sub-tendered the contract to four companies. The electrical equipment industry in a representation to the power ministry said none of the sub-contractors had the necessary specifications or certificate from the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).
 
One subcontractor, JnJ Powercom Systems, is alleged to have defaulted