In a major move to tackle the long-standing issue of inflated electricity bills, the federal government of Pakistan is set to introduce a new initiative titled “Apna Meter, Apni Reading”, giving consumers the power to record and submit their own meter readings via a mobile app.
The announcement came during a meeting of the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Energy (Power Division), where pressing concerns about electricity tariffs, overbilling, and sectoral relief were hotly debated. Federal Minister for Energy, Owais Leghari, shared that the scheme will empower users to take control of their electricity usage and billing—aiming to restore trust and transparency in the system.
“Consumers will now be able to take a picture of their meter and send it directly through an app. This will help eliminate errors and complaints related to overbilling,” Leghari said.
The Apna Meter, Apni Reading scheme is part of a broader strategy to make electricity billing more accurate and consumer-friendly. The federal minister also stated that the government has no intention of altering the current slab system but is working on linking subsidies directly with Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) beneficiaries to ensure targeted relief.
Subsidies for the Deserving
In a significant relief measure, Leghari announced that power usage up to 100 units will now be 56% cheaper, while those consuming between 101 and 200 units will benefit from a 48% reduction in their electricity costs. These reductions aim to support low-income households and ensure fair electricity billing for the most vulnerable communities.
Parliamentarians Voice Concerns
During the session, MNA Rana Muhammad Hayat raised questions about whether there would be further reductions in electricity tariffs in the upcoming financial year. NEPRA Chairman responded that there is little chance of a rate decrease at this time.
Hayat also criticized the disparity in relief distribution, highlighting that while the industrial sector received 30% relief, the agricultural sector was left out. In response, Power Division officials clarified that the industrial relief stemmed from the removal of cross-subsidies.
Another committee member, Junaid Akbar, voiced his frustration over persistent line losses and power outages despite their cooperation. “We support efforts, but the public still suffers from eight-hour-long power cuts,” he said.
Meanwhile, the CEO of PESCO assured the committee that improvements have been made and further progress is expected in the coming month.
The government emphasized that a comprehensive planning effort is underway for the power sector’s future. Minister Leghari reiterated that by ending expensive contracts with Independent Power Producers (IPPs), the government had already secured a Rs. 3400 billion benefit for the public. He assured that the journey toward affordable electricity in Pakistan has begun and will continue with more targeted efforts.
