The convenience of paying bills online has become a necessity. One such advancement that has simplified our lives is the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), which allows instant, real-time transactions between individuals, merchants, and banks.
This article will guide you through the steps to pay your electricity bill using UPI, discuss the benefits of using UPI for bill payments, and provide additional information on managing your electricity bills online.
What is UPI?
The National Payments Corporation of India created the immediate real-time payment system known as the Unified Payments Interface (UPI).
The interface makes transactions between individuals, merchants, and banks more accessible by allowing instant transfers of money between two bank accounts using mobile devices.
The advent of UPI-based applications and payment has dramatically simplified and eased people’s lives.
Now, every business—from a small fruit stall to a national grocery chain—accepts payments made through UPI.
Requirements to Pay Electricity Bill through UPI
Before you can pay your electricity bill through UPI, you must meet the following prerequisites:
Consumer Number
Each customer receives a unique consumer number from their power distribution company. This number can be found on your physical electricity bill.
UPI Application
You must have a UPI app installed on your mobile device. Examples of popular UPI apps include Google Pay, BHIM APP, PhonePe, and Paytm.
UPI PIN
A UPI PIN is required to make payments using UPI apps. This PIN secures your linked bank account, ensuring that you cannot make payments without it.
How to Pay Electricity Bills Using UPI – Step-by-Step Process
Now that you have the necessary requirements, follow these general steps to pay your electricity bill using UPI:
Step 1: Choose a UPI App
Activate your preferred UPI app on your mobile device. Look for the option that says “Electricity” or click on the Energy Symbol under the “Bill, Recharges & More” section.
Step 2: Select State and Electricity Provider
Choose the name of your state and select the relevant electricity provider for your area.
Step 3: Enter Account ID/Consumer Number
Enter your Account ID or Consumer Number and click “Continue.”
Step 4: Verify Bill Details
After proceeding, you will see the bill due amount and additional information. Verify these details before moving forward.
Step 5: Complete Payment
Click on the “Pay Now” option, and enter your UPI PIN to complete your electricity bill payment through UPI.
Also Read: How To Pay Water Bill Through UPI
Why Make Electricity Bill Payments Using UPI?
There are several reasons to choose UPI for paying your electricity bills, including:
Quick Transactions
UPI transactions are fundamentally instantaneous, making it a time-saving payment method. This enables immediate bill payment at the touch of a finger.
Rewards
UPI systems offer incentives, vouchers, cashback, and discounts on various transactions, including bill payments, to attract users.
Round-the-Clock Bill Payments
As UPI transactions are completed on mobile devices, they can be accessed from anywhere and at any time, day or night. Unlike banks, there are no set hours for bill transactions.
Easy and Quick
UPI bill transactions do not require complicated information such as the recipient’s name, bank account number, or IFSC. Instead, a UPI ID and UPI PIN are all that is needed for a quick and easy bill payment process.
Also Read: How To Secure Your Account from UPI Frauds
Alternative UPI Apps for Electricity Bill Payments
While we have discussed the general steps for using UPI to pay your electricity bill, there are several UPI apps available that offer specific features and benefits. Below, we will cover the process of using three popular UPI apps for electricity bill payments: Finserv MARKETS, Paytm, and BBPS (Bharat Bill Payment System).
Finserv MARKETS
- Download the Finserv MARKETS app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
- Complete the sign-up process using your date of birth, mobile number, and an OTP.
- Locate the “Bill Pay” option on the home screen and select “Electricity.”
- Search for your electricity provider, such as MSEB, and select that option.
- Enter your consumer number and click “View Bill.”
- The app will display the amount due and various UPI payment options.
- Select your preferred UPI option and complete the payment.
Paytm
- Download the Paytm app and create an account.
- Click on “Recharge & Pay Bills” and select “Electricity.”
- Choose your state and electricity board.
- Enter your customer identification number and click “Proceed.”
- Select your preferred payment method (Paytm wallet, Debit/Credit card, Net Banking, or UPI).
- Complete the payment, and you will be notified of a successful transaction.
BBPS (Bharat Bill Payment System)
- Visit the BBPS website and enter the PIN code of your area.
- This will display a list of outlets where you can pay your bill.
- Follow the specific instructions for the outlet you choose to complete your electricity bill payment.
How to Check Electric Bill Status
There are several ways to check your electric bill status, including:
- Visiting the official website of your electricity provider and following their specific instructions.
- Logging into the Finserv MARKETS app, selecting the “Bill Pay” option, and choosing your provider to view your account details and bill status.
How to Reduce Electricity Bills
Reducing your electricity bill depends on your usage. Here are some tips to help:
- Turn off appliances when not in use.
- Use energy-efficient alternatives, such as LED bulbs instead of traditional bulbs.
- Opt for five-star-rated appliances that consume less power.
Additional Information on Online Electricity Bill Payments
While using UPI to pay your electricity bill is convenient, there are other online payment methods available:
- Standing Bank Instructions: Instruct your bank to make routine electricity bill payments on your behalf.
- Net Banking: Use your bank’s portal to pay your electricity bill online.
- Payments Banks: Choose from various payment banks, such as Airtel Payments Bank, India Post Payments Bank, or Paytm Payments Bank, to pay your bill online.
- Mobile Wallets: Use mobile wallets like MobiKwik or Freecharge to pay your electricity bill.
- Debit/Credit Card: Pay your bill using your debit or credit card through the official electricity bill app or website for your state.
Conclusion
Paying your electricity bill through UPI offers a simple, convenient, and secure way to manage your bills. With various UPI apps available, you can choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences. This comprehensive guide provides all the information you need to pay your electricity bill using UPI, ensuring that you never miss a payment or face penalties for late payments.
