Enhancing Water Accountability and Efficiency with Smart Metering Technology
💧 Smart Meters to Revolutionize Chennai’s Water Management in Commercial Zones
Chennai Metro Water Supply and Sewerage Board (CMWSSB), also known as Metrowater, is taking a significant leap toward efficient water usage and billing with the planned installation of one lakh smart water meters in commercial buildings across the city. This initiative, with an initial investment of ₹5 crore, marks a major push for digitization and accountability in the city’s utility infrastructure.
📊 Phase One Targets Bulk Consumers for Accurate Billing
In its first phase, the smart meters will be deployed primarily for bulk consumers, including state housing bodies like the Tamil Nadu Housing Board (TNHB), commercial complexes, and high-rise buildings. These devices will be integrated with a digital billing system that sends monthly water consumption updates directly to consumers’ phones.
The new smart meters will eliminate inaccuracies found in the older mechanical and AMR (automated meter reading) meters, which often registered false readings due to air pressure or reverse flow. The smart meters are expected to drastically reduce such inconsistencies and plug revenue leakage.
🚰 From Flat Rates to Usage-Based Billing
Until now, most residential and many commercial buildings were charged based on a flat rate of ₹80, regardless of actual consumption. This lack of differentiation and accountability led to significant water wastage and under-collection of water charges. With only 8 lakh out of 14 lakh tax-paying consumers currently paying water charges, Metrowater aims to close this gap by ensuring that buildings over 500 sq.ft. are mandatorily metered and billed accurately.
The project will also encourage better water management practices, fostering conscious usage among commercial entities. According to Metrowater Chief Engineer O. Parveez, the board plans to adopt a system similar to Tangedco’s electricity billing model, ensuring fair, usage-based tariffs.
📅 Timeline and Consumer Preparation
The tender for smart meter procurement is expected to be floated in May 2025, with work orders issued within two months. Notices will be sent in advance to listed bulk consumers for installation planning. Tariff structures and installation charges are to be announced soon.
Metrowater’s move aligns with broader urban sustainability goals, promoting resource efficiency and data-driven governance.