The state of Andhra Pradesh has marked a significant milestone with the installation of its first smart meter at the office of the Executive Engineer, Public Health Department, Eastern Region Electricity Distribution Company in Visakhapatnam. This smart meter represents a step toward modernizing the state’s electricity infrastructure.Initially, smart meters will be installed in government offices, with plans to extend the rollout to residential homes subsequently. The smart meters operate on a pre-recharge system, similar to mobile phones or DTH services. Consumers will need to recharge their meters in advance; electricity supply will be available only while the balance remains positive, after which it will be automatically cut off.These meters will allow users to monitor their electricity consumption in real-time and access usage readings online, enhancing transparency and control over energy usage.