Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated that Pakistan energy sector is facing the major challenge of electricity theft which can only be resolved through the effective use of modern technology. He made these remarks while addressing the inauguration ceremony of the “PowerSmart Mobile App – Apna Meter, Apni Reading” (My Meter, My Reading).
PowerSmart Mobile App
The Prime Minister explained that the app has been introduced to empower consumers by allowing them to submit their electricity meter readings themselves. The purpose of this initiative include:
- Eliminating complaints of overbilling
- Bringing transparency to the traditional meter reading system
- Restoration of public trust
- Ensuring accuracy in electricity bills
Budget for Public Awareness Campaign
The government has announced to launch a country-wide media campaign with a whopping amount of Rs 316 million to make the public aware of the benefits of this app. The app is available in five languages:
- Urdu
- Punjabi
- Sindhi
- Pashto
- Balochi
Reduction in Electricity Prices and Promotion of Solar Energy
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif highlighted the government efforts to reduce electricity prices. He said:
“We have focused on promoting solar energy which has significantly reduced overall electricity consumption.”
Govt Decides to Remove Rs.35 Monthly TV Fee from Electricity Bills to Ease Burden on Public#electricityprice #shehbazgovt #electricitybill #PTVfee #BreakingNews #CapitalTV #CapitalNews #CapitalLive pic.twitter.com/wLxNRSe3SC
— Capital TV (@CapitalTVLive) June 30, 2025
PTV Fee Removed from Electricity Bills
In a major relief for electricity consumers, the Prime Minister also declared that the Pakistan Television (PTV) fee, previously included in electricity bills, would be scrapped, providing direct relief to consumers. This move is not only a response to public pressure but also part of a broader relief package.
Annual Loss of Rs. 600 Billion
Electricity theft is severely affecting Pakistan energy sector. Key statistics:
| Issue | Impact |
| Annual electricity theft | Approx. Rs. 600 billion in losses |
| Effect on citizens | Increased electricity tariffs, load shedding |
| Effect on economy | Slower growth, rising circular debt |
| Solution | Implementation of smart meters and auto-reading apps |
Government Strategy and Future
The PowerSmart app is an important step towards the Digital Pakistan vision. From the app:
- Transparency in billing systems will improve
- Revenue generation will increase
- This will help in controlling the revolving loan.
- Citizens will have greater access to technology
The ‘Apna Meter, Apni Reading’ app is a revolutionary step that aims to bring transparency to billing and strengthen Pakistan energy system. If implemented effectively, this initiative will not only provide relief to consumers but also be beneficial for the national economy.
