The electricity authority (EAC) on Monday launched its long-anticipated installation of smart meters, spokeswoman Christina Papadopoulou announced.

Smart meters will enable the public to monitor their energy consumption habits and use, enable accurate and immediate billing, and efficient detection and repair of faults, Papadopoulou said.

Meter replacements are expected to require a brief shut-down of power to the property, lasting about 20 minutes, she said.

EAC crews will be working mainly on afternoons and weekends aiming to install 500,000 meters by 2028.