Smart meters have revolutionised energy management across West Bengal, in the eastern part of India, under the West Bengal State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (WBSEDCL). These advanced meters support real-time tracking and ensure that users are billed accurately for the electricity consumed. Residents can recharge their meters conveniently using both online and offline methods, enabling seamless electricity management.

You can also pay your electricity bill conveniently with third-party websites, like Bajaj Finserv. Bajaj Pay, the BBPS platform on Bajaj Finserv, simplifies the process of recharging your smart meters. With this platform, you can make payments, and access your payment receipts quickly and efficiently. Bajaj Pay also supports a wide range of other financial transactions, making it an all-in-one solution for managing multiple payments with ease.

Understanding smart meters

A smart meter is an advanced digital electricity meter that records power consumption and sends real-time data to the utility provider. Unlike conventional meters, smart meters do not require manual readings, making them more efficient and accurate.

These meters operate on a prepaid or postpaid system, where users either pay in advance or receive bills based on their usage. With the integration of smart technology, consumers can track their electricity consumption, identify usage patterns, and optimise energy savings.

Benefits of using smart meters

Here are the key benefits of using a smart meter for your electricity connection:

• Real-time data: Provides instant updates on electricity consumption.
• Accurate billing: Eliminates errors caused by manual readings.
• Energy efficiency: Encourages users to reduce unnecessary energy consumption.
• Convenience: It enables seamless recharge through various online and offline options.
• Environmental benefits: Supports reduced power wastage, aiding in environmental sustainability.

How to recharge your smart meter in West Bengal

Recharging a smart meter in West Bengal is simple and user-friendly. Customers can choose between online and offline methods to keep their meters active. Online options include payment through authorised portals and mobile applications, while offline methods allow payments at customer service centres.

Local electricity offices provide additional support for customers new to smart meters. Consumers must ensure their smart meter account details are correct before initiating any recharge to avoid errors.

Online recharge methods

West Bengal residents can recharge smart meters through authorised payment platforms and mobile applications. Options like internet banking, UPI, and credit/debit cards simplify transactions. These platforms ensure fast and secure payments, making online recharge an ideal choice.

Offline recharge options

Offline recharge facilities are available at WBSEDCL customer service centres in West Bengal. Consumers can visit these offices, provide their smart meter details, and recharge using cash or card payments.

Common issues and troubleshooting tips

Though recharging a smart meter online is generally a seamless process, some users might face a few issues. Here are some common problems and troubleshooting tips:

• Payment failures: If the payment does not go through, check the internet connection and ensure that the payment gateway is functioning properly. Retry the payment or use a different payment method if necessary.
• Incorrect meter number: Always double-check the meter number before proceeding with the recharge. A wrong number may lead to the recharge being applied to the wrong account.
• Recharge not reflecting: If the recharge does not appear on your meter immediately, wait for a few minutes. If the issue persists, contact the customer support team for assistance.
• Payment confirmation not received: If you did not receive a confirmation, check your email or SMS inbox. If you still cannot find it, verify with your bank or payment provider to ensure that the payment was successful.
• Login issues: If you are having trouble logging into your account, try resetting your password or contact customer support for help.

By following these tips, users can resolve any issues they may encounter while recharging their smart meters.

Contact information for smart meter services

Contact details	Information
West Bengal State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (WBSEDCL)	19121
West Bengal District Office	North 24 Parganas: 033 25523662, 033 25846202Paschim Bardhaman: 0341 2254545Purba Bardhaman: 0342 2662428Paschim Medinipur: 03222 275571Uttar Dinajpur: 246025Dakshin Dinajpur: 255201, 255634

Tips to manage and reduce your electricity consumption

Switch off appliances: Turn off unused devices to save power.

Use energy-efficient devices: Opt for LED lights and 5-star rated appliances.

Unplug devices: Avoid standby power consumption by unplugging idle devices.

Monitor usage: Regularly check your smart meter balance to identify high-consumption patterns.

Optimise cooling/heating: Set air conditioners and heaters to moderate temperatures.

Steps to pay your electricity bill online on the Bajaj Finserv website

Paying the electricity bill through the Bajaj Finserv website is simple. Here are the steps:

1. Visit the Bajaj Finserv website

2. Navigate to ‘ALL PAYMENTS’ under the ‘PAYMENTS’ section and click on it

3. Select the ‘ELECTRICITY BILL’ option from under ‘BILLS AND RECHARGES’

4. A pop-up will request for sign-in, enter your mobile number, and click on ‘GET OTP’ to login

5. Select your service provider from the list of power suppliers

6. Enter your ‘CUSTOMER ID’ and click on ‘FETCH YOUR BILL’

7. Verify the bill amount and click on ‘PAY NOW’

8. Pay using the multiple payment methods available such as Bajaj Pay UPI, debit card, credit card, net banking, and Bajaj Pay Wallet.

Post the transaction you will receive a confirmation to intimate about successful payment.

Fee and charges

A convenience fee of up to 2% will be charged depending on the transaction amount and payment mode (inclusive of applicable taxes). For more information on fees and charges, click here.

Note: For failed transactions, the total amount including charges except taxes are reversed.