Digital hub helps APEPDCL fast-track power connections

The Andhra Pradesh Eastern Power Distribution Company Limited (APEPDCL) has launched a Centralised Processing Centre (CPC) in Visakhapatnam to speed up services and improve transparency. Notably, this is the first system of its kind in the Telugu states.

The new system has already cut delays significantly. Earlier, officials took nearly a month to process new power connection applications. Now, the CPC team clears approvals within 24 hours.

In the first phase, the CPC focuses on agriculture and aquaculture, as these sectors drive the regional economy. Meanwhile, the discom plans to extend the system to all consumer categories by the end of the current financial year.

At present, the CPC handles applications under the LT-5 category for agricultural connections. Since the launch, officials have sanctioned nearly 400 new connections in a single day. Most of these fast approvals came from Eluru, West Godavari, Kakinada, and Konaseema districts.

APEPDCL Chairman and Managing Director I. Prudhvitej led the initiative after he visited Gujarat for a study tour. During the visit, the team examined the centralised model adopted by Gujarat Urja Vikas Nigam Limited.

“We adopted this model to ensure transparency and efficiency. Further, we plan to extend it to domestic household connections by the end of this financial year. The system will help us handle about 16,000 new applications every month, save applicants’ time, and remove middlemen,” Prudhvitej said.

The CPC now serves as the digital control centre of the discom. It operates across four main areas. First, a single-window platform processes new connections, rooftop solar applications, and name changes, thereby reducing delays at local offices.

Second, the billing system runs automated checks to detect abnormal readings and errors before officials generate bills. As a result, consumer complaints have come down. Third, the centre manages data from the ongoing smart meter rollout under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme.

Finally, real-time tracking of applications improves accountability and curbs middleman involvement. By shifting paperwork to the central system, the discom allows field staff to focus on maintenance and reliable power supply. Consequently, officials also expect the move to reduce aggregate technical and commercial losses.