Federal Minister for Energy, Sardar Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari, announced a significant reduction in the prices of smart meters across Pakistan. The price drop is expected to save the power sector and electricity consumers approximately Rs. 150 billion annually.
The minister said the cost of three-phase smart meters has fallen from Rs. 45,000 to Rs. 25,000, while single-phase meters have dropped by Rs. 7,000. He credited the reduction to timely policy decisions, improved transparency, and the adoption of a competitive procurement process by power distribution companies.
Sardar Awais Leghari highlighted that reforms in Pakistan Engineering Council regulations have attracted wider participation from international companies. Global firms actively took part in competitive bidding after procedural barriers were removed. Continuous monitoring and the introduction of clear standards for smart meters further contributed to the price reduction.
The minister explained that the estimated Rs. 150 billion annual savings will primarily be used by power distribution companies to replace faulty and outdated meters. Consumers will also benefit directly as lower meter prices will reduce demand notice charges for new electricity connections.
Smart meters offer additional advantages, including prepaid options, real-time monitoring of electricity usage, faster restoration of supply without needing a lineman, and improved access to consumption data for consumers. The technology also helps detect electricity theft and prevents incorrect readings.
Sardar Awais Leghari emphasized that these initiatives are part of the government’s broader efforts to modernize the power sector. The introduction of cost-effective smart meters is aimed at increasing efficiency, reducing financial pressure on utilities, and ensuring a better service experience for consumers.
In other related news also read ‘Apna Meter, Apni Reading’ App Rolled Out in Pakistan to Reform Power Billing
The move marks a major step toward a modern, transparent, and technologically advanced electricity system in Pakistan, benefiting both the public and the energy sector while promoting sustainable energy management.
