In a decisive move to modernize its energy infrastructure, Pakistan’s federal government announced a plan to replace all three-phase electricity meters with advanced AMI (Advanced Metering Infrastructure) smart meters across the country. The initiative, driven by the Ministry of Energy, aims to tackle rampant power theft and eliminate overbilling, issues that have long plagued Pakistan’s electricity sector. With a phased rollout and a deadline of December 2026, this ambitious project signals a transformative step toward a more transparent and efficient energy system.

The decision, finalized on September 10, 2025, addresses two critical challenges: electricity theft and inaccurate billing. Traditional three-phase meters, widely used in commercial and high-consumption residential settings, have been vulnerable to tampering, costing the national exchequer billions annually. Additionally, overbilling errors have eroded consumer trust in power distribution companies. By introducing AMI smart meters, the government seeks to enable real-time monitoring and precise billing, ensuring fair charges for consumers and reducing losses for utilities.

The Ministry of Energy emphasized that smart meters will revolutionize electricity management. Unlike conventional meters, AMI technology allows for remote data collection, automated billing, and immediate detection of irregularities, such as unauthorized usage. Consequently, this upgrade promises not only to curb theft but also to enhance service reliability for millions of consumers.