Islamabad: The Ministry of Energy (Power Division) has entered into a Transaction Advisory Services Agreement (TASA) with the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group, to advance Pakistan’s power distribution network through digitization.

According to Press Information Department, the agreement designates the IFC as the transaction advisor, tasked with a comprehensive techno-commercial assessment for a service-provider model or public-private partnership framework. This initiative aims to support the large-scale rollout of smart metering infrastructure for 10 million single-phase connections, attracting local and international investors to install, maintain, and operate the infrastructure.

Under the leadership of the Prime Minister, the Ministry is accelerating reforms to replace outdated systems with modern infrastructure, enhancing transparency and operational efficiency in the power sector. Advanced Smart Metering Infrastructure (AMI) is central to this transformation, providing real-time energy consumption visibility, reducing theft, improving billing accuracy, and minimizing manual errors.

An international competitive bidding process has reduced the cost of smart meters by 40 percent. Distribution companies are directed to install smart meters for new connections, with existing three-phase meters to be converted by a specified deadline. The Ministry, in collaboration with the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA), is addressing faulty meters by authorizing their replacement with smart meters.

The Ministry reaffirms its commitment to the Prime Minister’s vision of a transparent, efficient, and consumer-centric power sector, ensuring reliable electricity services for the people of Pakistan.