PM Shehbaz reaffirmed the government’s
commitment to supporting the
ongoing solarization boom in Pakistan
APP
Islamabad: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting the ongoing solarization boom in Pakistan, calling it the most cost-effective way of generating electricity. Addressing the launch ceremony of the “Apna Meter, Apni Reading” Power Smart mobile application, the premier welcomed Pakistan’s rapid transition towards solar energy and emphasized that the government will not discourage this progress.
A Revolutionary Step Toward Power Sector Reforms
The Power Smart App, developed by the Ministry of Energy (Power Division), allows electricity consumers to record and submit their own meter readings via photo uploads. This initiative aims to eliminate overbilling, delayed readings, and human error. Terming it a “revolutionary reform,” PM Shehbaz said the app will enhance provincial coordination and empower users through transparency.
App Available in Five Languages for Wider Access
The application, which supports five regional languages, is expected to significantly improve communication and coordination among provinces. It empowers users to become active participants in the billing system, allowing for real-time oversight and accountability.
Ongoing Reforms in the Power Sector
The prime minister highlighted that for over a year, major reforms have been initiated in the Ministry of Energy. These include merit-based appointments in DISCO boards and decisive action against corrupt elements. PM Shehbaz credited these steps for recent reductions in electricity tariffs and added that a special task force had worked diligently to deliver relief to consumers.
Major Milestones: Tariff Reduction and Debt Settlement
Referring to tough negotiations with Independent Power Producers (IPPs), PM Shehbaz said the government successfully reduced the per unit cost of electricity to Rs 7.41 for households. He also noted that agreements with banks helped resolve the circular debt issue—marking it as a significant achievement.
PTV Fee Removed from Electricity Bills
As part of the relief package, the prime minister announced the elimination of the PTV license fee from monthly electricity bills.
Challenges Ahead: Power Theft and Reduced Demand
PM Shehbaz acknowledged two major challenges: Rs 500 billion in annual power theft and a widening gap between electricity production and reduced demand due to solarization. He assured that the government is actively exploring solutions to ensure sustainable energy pricing for both industrial and domestic users.
Minister Leghari Emphasizes Transparency through Technology
Federal Minister for Energy, Sardar Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari, praised the use of technology in curbing billing irregularities. He stated that billions of rupees have already been reimbursed to consumers affected by overbilling. “Through this app, we are handing the meter-reading mechanism directly to the consumers,” he said.
Key Features of the Power Smart App
- Consumers can upload a photo of their meter reading on a specific date.
- The uploaded image will be used to generate the monthly bill.
- Priority will be given to user-submitted readings to prevent tampering.
- The app protects subsidized users from losing support due to incorrect readings.
- It empowers users to monitor and verify their own electricity consumption.
Transformative Reform in Power Governance
The app is more than a digital tool—it represents a major governance reform that shifts power to the hands of consumers. Led by Federal Minister Awais Leghari and executed by Secretary Power Division Dr. Fakhar Alam and his team, the initiative is poised to bring long-term benefits to Pakistan’s power sector.
