Govt Rejects New Fuel-Based IPPs, Plans 10 Million Smart Meters

Power sector reforms in Pakistan will focus on reducing costs, improving efficiency, and expanding modern energy systems. Federal Energy Minister Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari announced that the government will not establish any new imported fuel-based Independent Power Producers (IPPs). In addition, authorities plan to shift 10 million electricity consumers to Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) meters during the current year.
The minister shared these plans while addressing a workshop at Lahore University of Management Sciences. The session aimed to improve journalists’ understanding of Pakistan’s electricity sector and future reforms. As a result, officials discussed issues linked to tariffs, contracts, energy planning, and power generation policies.
Leghari said the government had already renegotiated agreements with most IPPs. According to him, these revised agreements could save consumers nearly Rs3.5 trillion over the next 10 to 15 years. He also stressed that misinformation often creates confusion about the energy sector.

Government Pushes Energy Reforms

The minister urged media organizations to report accurate and balanced information about electricity issues. He said incomplete reporting often fails to explain the full picture of the sector. Therefore, the government wants stronger communication between policymakers, journalists, and the public.
Leghari also discussed Pakistan’s recently introduced solar policy. He assured participants that the policy would not slow solar energy adoption in the country. Instead, the government plans to encourage investment in battery energy storage systems.
Officials are also working to reduce electricity costs for industrial and commercial consumers during daytime hours. The minister said these measures would support economic activity and improve energy efficiency nationwide.

Smart Meter Rollout Begins

The government’s plan to install AMI meters for 10 million consumers marks another major reform step. These smart meters can improve billing accuracy and reduce electricity losses. In addition, officials believe modern metering systems will help improve transparency in the power sector.The government says these reforms will create a more sustainable and affordable electricity system for consumers across Pakistan.