Smart Meter Prices Cut by Up to 40% in Major Relief for Power Consumers

*Islamabad (Qudrat Daily):*
In a major relief for electricity consumers, the government has announced a significant reduction of up to 40 percent in the prices of smart meters for power distribution companies (DISCOs) by strengthening the competitive procurement process.

Federal Minister for Energy Awais Leghari said that the reduction in smart meter prices would result in nationwide savings of approximately Rs150 billion. According to him, the price of a three-phase smart meter has been reduced from Rs45,000 to Rs25,000, while the price of a single-phase meter has been cut by Rs7,000.

The energy minister stated that the government introduced positive changes in the rules of the Pakistan Engineering Council, which helped remove barriers faced by companies. International firms actively participated in the competitive process, leading to lower prices.

He added that the reduced cost of smart meters would lower the amount consumers are required to pay under demand notices. Smart meters will also help in the immediate detection of incorrect meter readings and electricity theft, while providing consumers with the facility of advance payment.

The minister emphasized that the initiative would improve transparency, efficiency, and service delivery in the power sector, ultimately benefiting electricity consumers across the country.