Smart meters to be installed on transformers across all DISCOs to curb theft, overbilling: Cheema

Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Establishment Division Ahad Cheema chaired a meeting on Power Distribution Companies (DISCOs) where it was decided that smart meters will be installed on transformers across all DISCOs to curb theft and overbilling.

The meeting reviewed development programs for DISCOs and discussed the Economic Affairs Division’s (EAD) efforts to arrange funding for installing smart meters on transformers across all DISCOs. Participants noted that positive progress had been made so far in arranging funding for the smart metering system, which is intended to help curb electricity theft and overbilling.

The meeting discussed the continuation of the smart metering project after privatisation. Ahad Cheema said the government would put in place arrangements to ensure that private investors carry the project forward. Smart meters on transformers can help curb electricity theft, improve billing accuracy and protect consumers from overbilling, while safeguarding the interests of consumers, investors and the government.

Negotiations with multilateral partners for development programmes would continue until privatisation is completed. If DISKO is privatized during negotiations or plan development, the related financing and development plans will be transferred to private investors as part of the transfer, according to the agreement.

Ahad Cheema also emphasized that all new projects undertaken by private investors in DISCOs should be tendered and approved by the National Electricity Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) where applicable. He emphasized that the purpose of privatization is not to transfer costs or undue pressure to consumers. The government will facilitate this process while protecting the interests of consumers and ensuring that investors meet their financial and contractual obligations.