Islamabad: Minister for Power Sardar Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari announced a significant reduction in the prices of smart meters for power distribution companies, with reductions reaching up to 40 percent. This move is expected to result in annual savings of 150 billion rupees.

According to Radio Pakistan, the Minister shared these insights after a report on smart meters was unveiled. He highlighted that the implementation of transparent and internationally competitive procurement processes has led to a substantial decrease in the price of a three-phase smart meter, from approximately 45,000 rupees to less than 25,000 rupees. This price adjustment brings smart meters closer to the cost of conventional three-phase meters. Additionally, the price for a single-phase smart meter has been reduced by 7,000 rupees, exclusive of applicable taxes.

Sardar Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari emphasized that smart meters offer several advantages, including the elimination of incorrect readings, quick detection of electricity theft, prepaid billing options, direct access to usage data for consumers, and faster power restoration without the need for a lineman.