The federal government has decided to install smart meters on electricity transformers across Pakistan to reduce power theft, prevent overbilling and improve billing accuracy.
The project will cover transformers operated by electricity distribution companies, commonly known as DISCOs.
The decision was discussed during a meeting chaired by Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Establishment Division Ahad Cheema.
Officials reviewed development projects involving DISCOs and discussed arrangements to secure funding for the smart metering programme.
During the meeting, officials informed participants that efforts to arrange financing for the project had made positive progress.
However, the project remains in the planning and financing stage, and no installation deadline has been announced.
The meeting also examined how the smart metering programme would continue after the privatisation of electricity distribution companies.
Ahad Cheema said the government would establish arrangements requiring private investors to continue the projects after taking control of the companies.
He clarified that privatisation should not place unnecessary financial burdens on electricity consumers.
Officials agreed to continue discussions with multilateral financial institutions and development partners until the privatisation process is completed.
Cheema also directed that new projects introduced by private investors after privatisation must undergo competitive bidding.
However, such projects will require approval from the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) under applicable regulations.
Federal Power Minister Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari, the prime minister’s adviser on privatisation and senior government officials attended the meeting.
