Stories
Smart meters have a SIM card: How they work and what happens if removed

N
News18•16-10-2026, 18:28
Smart meters have a SIM card: How they work and what happens if removed
- •Smart electricity meters installed in homes contain a SIM card or SIM-like communication technology.
- •This SIM card allows the electricity department to receive consumption data directly without sending employees to homes.
- •The meter uses the mobile network to automatically send electricity usage data to the power company.
- •Not all smart meters use a SIM card; some utilize alternative communication systems.
- •Attempting to remove the SIM card is considered meter tampering, which can lead to heavy fines, legal notices, or disconnection.
Key Questions Answered
Smart meters continuously record electricity consumption data and use a built-in SIM card or communication technology over a mobile network to send this usage data directly to the electricity department automatically.
No, consumers do not need to recharge the SIM card inside a smart electricity meter. The connectivity and service responsibility are entirely managed by the electricity department.
Attempting to remove the SIM card or tamper with a smart meter is considered a serious crime. Consumers can face heavy fines, legal notices, or even have their electricity connection cancelled by the department.





