Smart meters to be installed on DISCO transformers to curb power theft, overbilling

The government of Pakistan has announced plans to install smart meters on transformers across all power distribution companies (DISCOs) in an effort to curb electricity theft and overbilling, according to Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Cheema. The initiative, which is being reviewed during a meeting on DISCOs in Islamabad, aims to improve billing accuracy, reduce electricity theft, and protect consumers from overbilling.

Cheema emphasized that arrangements would be made to ensure the project continues after the privatisation of DISCOs, with private investors required to take it forward. The minister also stressed that any new project undertaken by a private investor within a DISCO must go through competitive bidding and obtain approval from the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA), ensuring that consumer interests are protected and investors fulfil their financial and contractual obligations.

Brief written by urgent.news from Business Recorder's own syndicated text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.