The Ministry of Energy (Power Division) has launched a nationwide rollout of smart meters across all electricity distribution companies (DISCOs) under its “Year of Customer Service Improvement 2025–26” initiative. The move aims to enhance transparency, operational efficiency, and customer satisfaction in Pakistan’s power sector.
Why smart meters matter
According to a Power Division spokesperson, metering serves as the primary link between electricity providers and consumers. The introduction of smart meters will enable real-time data monitoring, reduce billing errors, and provide greater transparency. The initiative is part of a broader effort to digitalize Pakistan’s power infrastructure and improve service delivery.
Lower costs, greater savings
The high cost of smart meters had been a major hurdle. Previously priced at around Rs20,000 per unit, single-phase smart meters—used by nearly 80% of Pakistan’s 38 million electricity consumers—are now priced closer to Rs15,000. This reduction, achieved through open procurement and continuous monitoring, is expected to save the country approximately Rs25 billion annually, assuming the replacement of 5 million meters each year.
How smart meters will help consumers
Smart meters will allow customers to track their electricity consumption in real time via mobile apps, helping them manage usage and costs more effectively. Automated readings will minimize human error and eliminate disputes over faulty bills, fostering trust between consumers and utilities.
The initiative also sets the stage for future prepaid metering options, marking a major step toward a more digital, transparent, and customer-centric energy ecosystem in Pakistan.
