Power Division moves to digitize detection billing system

September 03, 2026 (MLN): The Power Division has decided to digitize and automate the electricity detection billing system to curb overbilling, reduce human intervention, and protect consumers from unnecessary financial burdens.

The move is part of the broader power sector reform agenda being pursued under Federal Minister for Power Division Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari, with a focus on improving consumer protection and providing greater relief to electricity users, according to APP.

Previously, detection bills were prepared through estimated electricity consumption when meters malfunctioned, technical faults occurred, or actual consumption could not be accurately recorded under the applicable rules and regulations.

However, in some cases, the estimated consumption differed significantly from actual usage, leading to inflated bills and lengthy complaint resolution procedures. The existing mechanism also allowed room for human intervention, raising concerns over transparency and potential irregularities.

To address these issues, the Power Division has directed all distribution companies to make the required amendments to NEPRA's Consumer Service Manual and take other necessary measures for implementation of the new system.

Under the revised mechanism, detection billing and related recovery will be reviewed on a monthly basis. The monitoring process is intended to identify overbilling and abnormal consumption trends at an early stage, allowing corrective action to be taken promptly.

The minister said the reforms are aimed at making the power system more consumer-friendly while strengthening protection of electricity users' rights.

He added that the revamped detection billing mechanism would improve transparency, reduce unnecessary hardship for consumers, and help strengthen public confidence in the electricity system.

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