Power users can now send their meter readings with 'Apna Meter, Apni Reading' app

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday formally launched the 'Apna Meter, Apni Reading' mobile application with an aim to enhance transparency in electricity billing and empower consumers to record their own meter readings.

The move is part of power sector reforms aimed at reducing reliance on traditional meter readers, whose estimates often result in inflated bills and push consumers into higher tariff slabs due to the pro rata billing system.

Addressing the app launch ceremony, PM Shehbaz described it as a "revolutionary" step that would benefit millions of households across the country.

“We brought in reforms in the power sector but have a long way to go," he said.

"We brought merit-based appointments to Disco boards and took strong action against corrupt elements."

He praised the efforts of the energy minister in holding tough negotiations with independent power producers (IPPs), which he said led to a reduction of Rs7.50 per unit in electricity tariffs.

Shehbaz said that the government resolved the issue of circular debt through discussions with banks and taking benefit of declining international oil prices to bring electricity costs down.

He further announced the removal of the Rs35 monthly Pakistan Television (PTV) fee from electricity bills, which will offer financial relief to over 40 million power consumers nationwide.

Highlighting another key issue, the prime minister said that electricity theft causes an estimated loss of Rs500 billion annually and pledged that the government is intensifying efforts to eliminate the practice.

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting solar power as the most affordable energy option, noting Pakistan's rapid growth in solar energy production.

Describing the new app as a user-friendly and transformative tool, PM Shehbaz said it is available in five languages and urged the power division to actively promote its use.