In a significant move linked to the Central government–mandated power sector reforms, the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) has issued instructions to implement prepaid smart metering for government electricity connections from February 15. The instructions were issued through a letter dated January 28 addressed to chief engineers of various districts and are aimed at meeting reform conditions that would allow Punjab to avail of additional borrowing space to the extent of 0.5 per cent of the state’s gross state domestic product (GSDP). In 2021-22, the Centre introduced a power sector reform-linked borrowing incentive in the form of additional borrowing space up to 0.5 per cent of GSDP. According to the letter, the move is in compliance with the circular dated February 7, 2023, and its subsequent amendment of February 14, 2023. In the February 7 circular, the scheme of the installation of prepaid smart meters was introduced for government departments, and on February 14, an amendment was made to the effect that the scheme would not be applicable to government hospitals, street lights, and …