Shillong Jan 20: Meghalaya requires over 600 MW of electricity but the generation is only around 300 MW.

Chief minister, Conrad K Sangma said that steps are being taken to bring down the aggregate technical and commercial (AT&C) losses including the introduction of smart metre system to monitor the consumption and have proper information and data of the consumers.

There are 4.57 lakh consumers in the state including 1.03 lakh consumers in Shillong city alone. As a beginning, 1.8 lakh smart metres would be installed by the MeECL.

He also urged the consumers to use electricity efficiently while encouraging them to use solar energy.

There are a number of pending power projects in Meghalaya including hydro and projects under renewable energy.

The chief minister also informed that the MeECL is yet to receive dues worth Rs 181 crore from consumers including industries in the state.