‘AMI project to transform power sector in Rawalpindi’

Islamabad:The Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) project is a ground-breaking initiative in Pakistan’s power sector, launched by the Government of Pakistan, said Mohsin Raza Gallani, Director of the AMI Project, while sharing its updates with media on its successful implementation in two operational circles of the Islamabad Electric Supply Company (Iesco): Rawalpindi City and Rawalpindi Cantonment, says a press release.

He said over 110,000 old meters have already been replaced with AMI meters, and projected that by 2026, all outdated meters in Rawalpindi City, Rawalpindi Cantonment, Taxila, and surrounding areas will be fully upgraded. Additionally, AMI meters are being installed in industrial sectors and on feeders with high loss rates, which will pave the way for uninterrupted power supply, reduction in line losses, and minimizing power theft.

The installation of AMI meters brings a host of benefits, including 100 per cent Accurate and Timely Meter Reading: Ensuring that consumers are billed correctly and on time. It will provide effective control on power theft by Identifying and addressing unauthorized usage of electricity, true estimation of power demand and supply thus helping manage the power grid more efficiently, real-time monitoring of electricity consumption and enabling instant tracking and control of electricity use, improved recovery and customer service and leading to better revenue recovery and customer support, automated fault reporting with the relevant field office about faulty meters and balanced distribution system resulting in fewer transformer and meter burnouts, thus reducing complaints.

Gallani emphasised that Iesco is proud to be the first power distribution company in Pakistan to implement this state-of-the-art technology. He also highlighted that an awareness campaign has been launched to educate the public on the benefits of AMI meters. International experts are collaborating on the project to ensure its success.

Despite some technical and operational challenges, including customer complaints, Gallani assured that the teams are addressing all issues swiftly and professionally. He urged the public to support the initiative, noting that the timely completion of the project will positively transform Pakistan’s power sector.