India
Although the JSEB has seen a reduction in line losses in the last year, revenue collection remains a real problem. In the rural areas, for example, only 25 per cent of the total amount billed is actually received by the utility. In the cities, both residential and C&I customers, as well as government institutions, have large accounts that are unpaid.
The JSEB has therefore introduced a scheme whereby franchisees will be appointed for each substation in the state – a total of 155 substations. Individuals, NGOs, co-operative societies, consumer associations and specialist companies may apply to be appointed as a franchisee.