PM Shehbaz Abolishes PTV License Fee, Launches ‘Apna Meter’ App for Transparency

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday announced the abolition of the Pakistan Television (PTV) license fee from electricity bills, providing financial relief to consumers nationwide. The announcement was made during the launch of the “Apna Meter, Apni Reading” mobile application in Islamabad — a new step towards transparency in electricity billing.

Addressing the ceremony, the prime minister said the country’s power sector faces a “four-pronged challenge”: rampant electricity theft, low consumption, rising circular debt, and high production costs. He disclosed that Rs500 billion worth of electricity is stolen annually — a staggering loss for the national economy.

The premier praised the rapid pace of solar energy adoption in Pakistan and reassured that solarisation would not be discouraged. “Solar is the world’s cheapest power source, and its expansion in Pakistan is encouraging,” he said.

The newly launched mobile app allows users to self-submit meter readings, aiming to reduce billing errors and enhance trust between consumers and utility providers. The app will be translated into at least five regional languages to ensure accessibility.

Shehbaz Sharif further announced a significant Rs4.5/unit cut in electricity prices after tough negotiations with independent power producers (IPPs), complemented by another Rs7.5/unit reduction due to falling oil prices.

He stressed that the reform agenda is designed to ensure cheaper electricity and long-term economic growth, with circular debt management and fiscal discipline as core priorities.