Govt considering prepaid meter system to tackle electricity theft

WEB DESK: Federal Minister for Energy, Awais Leghari, announced on Monday the government’s intention to tackle the persistent issue of electricity theft by introducing a prepaid meter system.

Addressing the media in Multan, Leghari emphasised that the current level of electricity theft is intolerable and that a system similar to prepaid mobile phone billing could be an effective solution.

Leghari highlighted the urgency of addressing the loopholes in the power sector, ensuring that the introduction of prepaid meters would not only curb theft but also improve billing transparency. He reassured the public that the government is committed to resolving the outstanding issues plaguing the power sector.

The minister also mentioned ongoing discussions between the government and Independent Power Producers (IPPs) to provide relief amounting to Rs45 billion, a measure promised by Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President Nawaz Sharif.

According to Dunya News, Leghari expressed optimism that these efforts would result in a significant reduction in electricity prices over the next year.

He further noted that the recent depreciation of the rupee had doubled capacity payments, a challenge that the government is addressing. As part of his efforts, Leghari plans to visit power companies in Balochistan and Sindh in the coming week to review the situation and ensure the implementation of effective solutions.

The introduction of prepaid meters is seen as a crucial step in strengthening the power sector and addressing the widespread issue of electricity theft across the country.

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