Govt plans smart metering across DISCOs beyond privatization

November 11, 2026 (MLN): The government is working to install smart meters on transformers across all Power Distribution Companies (DISCOs) to curb electricity theft, improve billing accuracy and protect consumers from overbilling.

The project will continue even after the privatization of DISCOs, with the government making arrangements to ensure that private investors carry it forward following the handover.

The matter was discussed during a meeting chaired by Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Establishment Division Ahad Cheema, which reviewed development programmes for DISCOs and the Economic Affairs Division’s (EAD) efforts to arrange financing for the smart metering system, according to the press release.

The meeting noted positive progress in arranging funding for the project. It also discussed the transfer of ongoing financing and development programmes to private investors if a DISCO is privatized before negotiations or programme preparations are completed.

Negotiations with multilateral partners for development programmes will continue until the privatization process is completed. If a DISCO is privatized during this period, the relevant financing and development programmes will be transferred to the private investor as part of the handover, subject to agreed arrangements.

Ahad Cheema emphasised that any new project undertaken by a private investor within a DISCO must be processed through competitive bidding and obtain approval from the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA), as applicable.

He stressed that privatization should not shift costs or place undue financial pressure on consumers. The government would facilitate the process while safeguarding consumer interests and ensuring that investors meet their financial and contractual obligations.

Federal Minister for Power Division Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari, the Prime Minister’s Adviser on Privatization and senior officials from relevant ministries also attended the meeting.

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