ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday reaffirmed the government’s support for the rapid adoption of solar energy in Pakistan, calling it the world’s cheapest source of electricity. He said the government had no intention of slowing down the ongoing solarization boom.
He was addressing the launch ceremony of a new mobile application, ‘Apna Meter; Apni Reading’, developed by the Ministry of Energy (Power Division). The app allows electricity consumers to submit their own meter readings and is available in five regional languages to ensure better coordination across provinces.
Calling the app a “revolutionary reform,” the Prime Minister said it would improve transparency, prevent overbilling, and empower consumers. The event was attended by ministers, parliamentarians, and energy sector officials.
PM Shehbaz highlighted various reforms introduced in the power sector over the past year, including merit-based appointments in electricity distribution companies (DISCOs), action against corruption, and efforts to lower power prices. He credited the Energy Ministry team and task force for making progress, including negotiating lower electricity rates with Independent Power Producers (IPPs) and addressing the circular debt with banks.
He said the per-unit price of electricity for households was reduced to Rs7.41 and further relief was provided through adjustments linked to falling global oil prices.
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The Prime Minister also announced the removal of the PTV license fee from monthly electricity bills.
However, he acknowledged two major challenges: power theft worth Rs500 billion annually, and a growing gap between electricity production and consumption due to the rising use of solar panels.
“We are aware of these challenges and are committed to finding solutions to reduce electricity costs further,” he said.
Earlier, Energy Minister Sardar Awais Leghari said the new app would promote transparency by letting consumers record their own meter readings. He said overbilling was a key issue and billions of rupees had already been refunded to affected consumers. “This app transfers control from meter readers to the people,” he added.
