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Summary Pakistan mandates smart meters for new electricity connections, aiming to modernise the power system, curb theft, improve billing transparency, and enhance efficiency nationwide.
ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) – Pakistan has taken a major step towards modernising its electricity system by making the installation of smart meters mandatory for new connections.
The initiative follows the launch of a nationwide smart metering project under a transaction advisory services agreement between the Power Division of Pakistan and the International Finance Corporation (IFC).
The plan aims to install smart meters across approximately 10 million electricity connections, with expectations of both local and foreign investment.
Officials say the move aligns with the prime minister’s vision of accelerating digital transformation in the power transmission system. Smart metering is expected to curb electricity theft and enhance transparency in billing.
Through a competitive global procurement process, authorities have achieved a potential 40% reduction in smart meter costs.
The government has also decided to phase out traditional meters, marking a shift towards a fully digital system. All new electricity connections will now require smart meters.
In addition, all three-phase consumers will be gradually shifted to smart metering, while commercial and industrial users will be integrated into the digital system. Measures have also been introduced to address faulty meters, with approval from National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA).
The government expects improved recovery rates and reduced system losses following implementation. Officials maintain that ongoing reforms in the power sector will strengthen financial stability and improve overall efficiency, ensuring reliable and quality electricity supply for consumers.
