PM unveils new power billing app for consumers

June 30, 2025 (MLN): In a major step to enhance transparency in electricity billing, the government has launched the “Apna Meter, Apni Reading” Power Smart Mobile Application, declared Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif.

Speaking at the launch ceremony held in Islamabad, the Prime Minister termed the app a revolutionary technological reform aimed at empowering consumers and ensuring fair billing.

He emphasized that the initiative would bring significant benefits to electricity users by allowing them to participate directly in the billing process.

The application, which supports five regional languages, is designed to strengthen national unity and promote inter-provincial harmony.

The Prime Minister directed that the app be made available to every household, from Peshawar to Karachi.

Highlighting broader power sector reforms, Shehbaz Sharif said the government is overhauling the Boards of Distribution Companies (DISCOs), making merit-based appointments, and taking firm action against corrupt elements.

He also noted successful negotiations with banks to resolve the longstanding circular debt issue, calling it a major achievement.

Power theft remains a major challenge, he said, citing an annual loss of Rs500 billion. However, the Ministry of Power and its team are working tirelessly to combat this issue.

He added that the government has passed on the benefits of declining international oil prices to the power sector.

On the topic of solar energy, the Prime Minister reiterated his support for the ongoing solarization trend in Pakistan, calling it the world’s most affordable method of power generation.

He noted that Pakistan is among the few countries seeing rapid progress in this area and assured that the government would not hinder its momentum.

To provide additional relief to consumers, the Prime Minister also announced the removal of the Pakistan Television (PTV) fee from electricity bills.

Minister for Power Division Sardar Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari also addressed the ceremony, stating that modern technology is being prioritized to increase transparency and deliver relief to the public.

He acknowledged that overbilling remains a concern but expressed confidence that the new application will address this issue.

According to the Power Division, the app allows consumers to upload a photo of their meter on a specified date.

The uploaded reading will form the basis for that month’s electricity bill, as per the press release issued.

In case both the consumer and meter reader submit readings, the lower of the two will be considered, ensuring consumer protection.

Furthermore, if a consumer submits a reading on the due date, any subsequent reading by the meter reader will be disregarded.

The system will be particularly helpful for subsidized users, enabling them to maintain their eligibility through timely submissions.

The app aims to tackle overbilling, reading errors, and delays, reducing complaints and unnecessary interventions.

By allowing consumers to keep a record and monitor the meter-reading process, it represents not only a digital innovation but also a significant governance reform.

Copyright Mettis Link News