Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif declared overbilling by power distribution companies (Discos) as unacceptable, emphasizing the urgent need to complete the installation of smart meters to enhance transparency. Chairing a review meeting in Islamabad, the premier highlighted the inefficiency and malpractices in power distribution and outlined clear directives to address these issues.
Overbilling and Accountability
During the meeting, PM Shehbaz criticized the persistent issue of overbilling and assured strict action against those involved. He expressed frustration over delays in appointing CEOs for power companies, directing authorities to expedite the process with full transparency. Recruitment within distribution companies, he asserted, must adhere to merit-based standards, leaving no room for favoritism or compromise on fairness.
Progress on Smart Meter Installation
The meeting also reviewed the progress of installing advanced metering infrastructure (AMI), commonly known as smart meters. These meters automatically transmit readings to a central server, ensuring precise billing and minimizing corruption by eliminating manual reading systems.
The installation rates of smart meters across major power companies were discussed. Peshawar Electric Supply Company (Pesco) led the effort, installing 51,173 of the targeted 152,559 smart meters. Lahore Electric Supply Company (Lesco) installed 49,470 out of 223,365 three-phase smart meters, while Faisalabad Electric Supply Company (Fesco) lagged with only 11,276 out of 192,311 installed.
PM Shehbaz emphasized that all available resources should be deployed to meet the installation targets set by the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra).
Read: Sindh Struggles with Escalating Dog Bite Cases in 2024
Performance Review of Power Companies
The meeting also included a detailed assessment of the performance of Lesco, Pesco, and Fesco. Recovery rates for these companies, up to November in the current fiscal year (2024-25), stood at 96.82% for Lesco, 87.98% for Pesco, and 97.57% for Fesco. However, transmission and distribution losses remained a significant concern, with Pesco reporting the highest losses at 33%, followed by Lesco at 13.04% and Fesco at 6.01%.
Government’s Strategy for Improvement
To address these challenges, PM Shehbaz urged the use of innovative strategies and technologies. He also stressed the need for enhanced accountability within power companies to curb inefficiencies and losses. The installation of smart meters, he reiterated, is a critical step toward modernizing the system and eliminating the outdated manual practices that allow corruption to thrive.
Way Forward
The government’s push for smart meters and transparent practices reflects its commitment to addressing the longstanding issues in power distribution. By improving billing accuracy, reducing corruption, and minimizing losses, Pakistan aims to create a more efficient and reliable power sector. Senior officials, including ministers and coordinators, attended the meeting to discuss and implement these measures.
The adoption of smart meters marks a pivotal shift toward modern energy management, promising a future of greater transparency and accountability in Pakistan’s power sector.
Follow us on Google News, Instagram, YouTube, Facebook,Whats App, and TikTok for latest updates