Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has given the green light to gradually eliminate the role of meter readers in power Distribution Companies (Discos) across Pakistan excluding the K-Electric (KE) service area with the launch of a new mechanism through a mobile application titled “Apna Meter Apni Reading”, well-informed sources told Business Recorder.

Under the current billing system, meter readers take photographs of consumers’ electricity meters. These images are submitted to the Power Information Technology Company (PITC) for bill generation.

However, this process has led to widespread complaints from consumers about overbilling and inaccuracies.

During a meeting held on June 17, 2025, the Prime Minister chaired discussions focusing on the elimination of overbilling, the introduction of automated billing systems, and the rollout of the new consumer-driven reading model.

According to sources, PM Shehbaz directed the Power Division to install a Power Smart Mobile App that includes detailed usage instructions in national and four regional languages Punjabi, Sindhi, Pashto, and Balochi to ensure accessibility and ease of use for the general public.

A soft launch of the app has been ordered immediately to allow authorities to identify and resolve any technical or operational issues before the formal nationwide inauguration by the Prime Minister.

The PM has set a one-month deadline for the Power Division to formulate a comprehensive plan for the complete phasing out of meter readers from the power metering system.

In addition, the Prime Minister directed that the cost savings from eliminating meter reading-related administrative expenses should be transferred as benefits to the consumers.

To support the rollout, the Power Division, in collaboration with the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, is preparing a nationwide media campaign to educate the public about the benefits and purpose of the initiative. This campaign will be reviewed by the Prime Minister within the week.

As part of this campaign, the government has allocated Rs. 316 million, and PITC has already instructed all Discos to initiate consumer awareness drives to highlight the benefits of the self-meter reading system. The shift also aims to address consumer mistrust, as many meter readers have been linked to malpractice and overbilling.

A detailed Terms of Reference (ToR) document has been finalized. It outlines the objectives, methodology, and scope of the public awareness campaign. A responsibility matrix has also been developed to clearly define the duties of PITC and MEPCO, covering:

• Media planning

• Vendor selection and engagement

• Field activation

• Monitoring and reporting processes

Meanwhile, Discos have reached out to the PITC CEO for guidance on their financial contribution to the campaign. They have also sought clarification on whether the campaign costs will be deducted from total billing payments or if PITC will supply promotional materials, such as:

• Standees

• Boards

  Banners

Discos have further requested PITC to explore options for free airtime on electronic media platforms to broadcast public service announcements about the new system.

Additionally, Discos have highlighted the critical need for comprehensive testing and validation of all digital tools and platforms before their public release. These include:

• The Power Smart App

• Apna Meter Apni Reading

• CCMS+

• Lineman Mobile Solution

They stressed that rigorous testing is vital to ensure:

• A smooth user experience

• Technical reliability

• Consumer confidence in the digital shift

Sources confirmed that PITC has been tasked with ensuring high performance and reliability across all platforms and must transparently share all details to comply with codal formalities and official procedures.