‘Apna meter apni reading’ initiative sees strong public response

(APP): Over one million users across Pakistan have embraced the self-meter reading initiative. This step was part of the government's wider efforts to tackle issues of over-billing and inaccurate meter readings, leveraging digital technology to empower consumers directly, a spokesperson for the Ministry of Energy told Wealth Pakistan.

The programme, called "Apna Meter Apni Reading" (My Meter, My Reading), was launched through the Power Smart app. This platform allows electricity consumers to independently submit meter readings, which improves billing transparency and accuracy. By uploading a photo of their meter, consumers minimise the risks of errors, delayed readings and disputes, creating a fairer billing environment.

Under the leadership of Federal Minister for Power Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari, the measures have been implemented to reform billing practices, the spokesperson said.

The app places consumers at the centre by enabling them to report their readings, making it easier to address discrepancies and prevent over-billing. The uptake of this digital tool has been remarkable, with more than one million electricity consumers nationwide actively using the Power Smart app. This significant adoption demonstrates increasing public trust in digital governance and strengthened relationship between consumers and utility services.

"Looking ahead, the federal minister for power has designated the upcoming year as a period focused on improved service and consumer satisfaction within the electricity sector. This commitment signals ongoing efforts to enhance user experience and operational efficiency," the spokesperson said.

According to the ministry official, the electricity sector reported losses of Rs591 billion in June 2024. However, due to reforms such as the self-meter reading initiative, these losses have been cut by Rs191 billion within the year, underscoring progress towards a more sustainable power sector.