By: APP
ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of Energy (Power Division) has taken a significant step towards enhancing customer service and operational efficiency by rolling out smart meters across electricity distribution companies (DISCOs) in Pakistan.
A spokesperson from the Power Division announced on Friday that metering is a crucial link between customers and service providers. In line with the Ministry’s declaration of 2025-26 as the “Year of Customer Service Improvement,” DISCOs are initiating a comprehensive digitalisation drive to modernise their infrastructure. This initiative aims to ensure real-time data availability, improve transparency, and enhance the overall customer experience.
Recognising that the high cost of smart meters has been a barrier to this transformation, the Power Division has intervened to lower costs. Of nearly 38 million electricity consumers in the country, about 80% are single-phase users. Previously, the cost of a single-phase smart meter was approximately Rs 20,000, which was significantly higher than international standards. Thanks to strategic interventions, open and transparent procurement processes, and ongoing monitoring, the price has been reduced to around Rs 15,000.
The spokesperson emphasised that this intervention alone is expected to lead to annual national savings of about Rs 25 billion, considering that 5 million meters will be replaced each year. The reduced cost of meters will also lessen the financial burden on consumers applying for smart meters, making advanced technology more affordable and accessible. Furthermore, with the introduction of competitive international bidding processes, prices may decrease even further.
This intervention will also greatly improve the meter reading process by minimising human involvement. Automated and remote readings will not only enhance accuracy but also build consumer trust in the billing system. By eliminating manual readings, the initiative will address longstanding concerns about faulty or disputed readings, fostering a more transparent and reliable relationship between consumers and their respective DISCOs.
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