NEPRA has taken an initiative to transform its energy sector with the introduction of smart metering. This innovative technology will revolutionized the way electricity is consumed and managed in the country.
Smart metering is an advanced system that enables real time tracking of electricity usage. It replaces traditional manual meters with digital smart meters that transmit consumption data to the utility company and the consumer. Smart meters will eliminate the problems of billing errors. Calculation of electricity usage in the house everyday will be visible to the customer. For this purpose only smart prepaid meters will be installed. To provide transparency and time savings for smart meter customers, In this regard USAID is helping Pakistanis to understand how they use electricity. USAID recently launched an app that allows customers to monitor their energy use in real time, find tips for saving electricity, make online bill payments, and log and track complaints. Check your Current Month FESCO Bill.
Benefits of Smart Metering
Some of the smart metering benefits are;
- Accurate billing and reduced errors in meter reading
- Real time monitoring of electricity consumption
- Identification of electricity theft and reduction in line losses.
- Improved customer services and support
- Increased energy efficiency and conservation.
Implementation of Smart Metering in FESCO
Government of Pakistan has taken this significant step of installing smart meters in several cities including Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi. Smart meters installation is also started in FESCO region. The power distribution companies aim to replace all the traditional meters with smart meters in next few years.
Challenges and Opportunities
Installation of smart meters in FESCO has benefits but it has also some challenges to face. some of the hurdles/ challenges are;
- High installation budget
- Technical issues and infrastructure upgradation
- Public awareness and education
- Right use of the technology
- Maintenance of the system
Keeping in mind the challenges smart metering has the potential to transform Pakistan’s energy sector promoting sustainability, efficiency and economic growth. We can expect a brighter future with reduced energy losses, improved customer support and a more sustainable tomorrow.
FAQs
What are smart Metering ?
Smart meter is a device that record information, such as consumption of electric energy, current, voltage levels and power factor etc.
What technology is used in smart metering?
Smart meters uses two main technologies; communication protocols for data exchange and data analytics for collecting and analysing energy consumption information
What is smart metering in Pakistan?
USAID is helping Pakistanis to understand how they use electricity. The smart meters will help consumers to keep track of electricity consumption on real time basis.
What are the risks of using smart metering ?
There may be some risks and disadvantages of smart metering i.e. hacking, unauthorized access to personal information of consumers, manipulation of energy usage data etc.
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