The Ministry of Energy has launched a major nationwide rollout of smart meters as part of its 2025-26 customer service improvement drive.
A spokesperson said the move is aimed at modernizing the distribution system, improving billing accuracy and building public trust in power companies.
The Ministry said cost reduction has unlocked the programme. Smart meter prices have been cut from around Rs. 20,000 to Rs. 15,000 per single-phase unit, after strict procurement reforms and competitive market engagement.
Around 80 percent of Pakistan’s 38 million electricity consumers use single-phase meters. The government estimates that replacing five million meters a year could save Rs. 25 billion annually.
Human meter reading will largely end under this plan. Remote automation will reduce errors, improve transparency and help resolve long-standing disputes over faulty billing.
Consumers will also be able to track consumption in real time using mobile apps, allowing better control over monthly bills.
The Ministry expects prices to decline further through global competitive bidding. Officials say the initiative marks a major milestone in digitalising Pakistan’s power sector and boosting service quality at distribution companies.
