The Power Division has announced a major shift in Pakistan’s energy infrastructure, confirming that traditional electricity meters in distribution companies (DISCOs) are being phased out as the country moves toward a modern digital system.
According to a spokesperson, substantial progress has already been made in implementing smart technologies across the sector. As part of this transition, all three-phase consumer connections will be converted to smart meters in a phased rollout.
The government has also made it mandatory to install smart meters for all new electricity connections. Officials stated that the move is expected to significantly improve bill recovery, reduce system losses, and enhance overall efficiency in the power distribution network.
A Transaction Advisory Services Agreement has been signed between the Power Division and the International Finance Corporation (IFC), with plans to install smart meters on 10 million connections. Smart metering will help prevent electricity theft and enhance billing transparency.
According to officials, the cost of smart meters has decreased by 40 per cent due to global competition. Commercial and industrial consumers will also be integrated into the digital system. These reforms in the power sector are expected to improve financial stability and operational efficiency.
According to the Federal Minister for Energy, last year, in 2025, it was estimated that an annual saving of Rs 150 billion was achieved by power distribution companies through the replacement of damaged meters.
In addition, electricity consumers will save billions of rupees on new meters, directly benefiting them through reduced demand notice costs for new connections. With the reduction in the prices of smart meters, the country is set to rapidly move toward digitalisation in the electricity sector, which will further improve the performance of the national grid.
Awais Leghari further stated that smart meters will provide relief from incorrect meter readings, enable immediate detection of electricity theft, offer advance payment facilities, allow direct monitoring of electricity usage, provide detailed consumption information, and enable power restoration without the need for linemen, along with many other benefits.
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