The State Electric Company (STELCO) has requested to sent photo images of electricity meter readings, in order to prepare bills for April, during the Covid-19 lockdown.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the company noted that assessments cannot be carried out during the lockdown adding that doing so poses a risk for both the residents and its employees.

Hence, the company asked consumers in the greater Malé region to send images of the meters via its web portal (www.stelco.com.mv/sur) so as to prepare the month’s billings.

Further, the statement noted that they will be making an "average bill" for those that are not able to do so, after evaluating previous months’ bills and considering the current electricity usage. It added that bills are based on actual electricity usage and adjustments might be made later on even if an average bill is made for April.

However, it assured that the bills will not be higher than the actual usage.

STELCO further said consumers should pay the electricity bills through various online payment facilities including internet banking and mobile banking through its website or phone application.