Tamil Nadu Cancels Smart Meter Tender Amid Adani Controversy

The Tamil Nadu Power Distribution Corporation cancelled a global tender for smart meters due to high costs quoted by AESL. The tender withdrawal occurs amid allegations against Adani Group for bribing Indian officials. A re-tender is anticipated. The company denied these accusations.

Tamil Nadu Power Distribution Corporation has annulled a global tender to procure smart meters, citing an excessive price quoted by Adani Energy Solutions Ltd (AESL).

The tender, initially announced in August 2023 as part of the central government's revised distribution sector scheme, was set to encompass over 82 lakh smart meters in eight districts, including Chennai. AESL, the lowest bidder for package 1, faced cancellation despite its status, with tenders for three additional packages also revoked.

The decision follows allegations against industrialist Gautam Adani, suggesting his involvement in a bribery scheme to sway solar power contracts. While the company denies the claims, US prosecutors have indicted Adani and others linked to the case.

(With inputs from agencies.)