The Power Division has decided to introduce fundamental reforms to the detection billing system to protect electricity consumers from unnecessary hardships.
The initiative is part of a broader reform process underway in the power sector under the leadership of Federal Minister for Energy Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari, aimed at providing maximum relief to consumers and ensuring effective protection of their rights.
In the past, when a meter malfunctioned, a technical fault occurred, or it was not possible to accurately record electricity consumption, the consumer’s usage was estimated under the relevant rules and regulations, and a detection bill was issued.
However, in some cases, the estimated consumption did not correspond to actual usage, resulting in additional billing and a lengthy complaint-resolution process for consumers. The scope for human intervention in the system also raised concerns regarding transparency and possible irregularities.
Taking note of these issues, the Power Division has decided to digitise and automate the detection billing system in order to minimise human intervention and unnecessary discretionary powers. In this regard, all distribution companies have been directed to make the necessary amendments to NEPRA’s Consumer Service Manual and take other relevant measures.
Under the new system, detection billing and the related recovery process will be monitored on a monthly basis. This will help ensure the timely identification of overbilling cases and unusual trends, allowing necessary action to be taken promptly.
Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari said that the primary objective of the ongoing reforms in the power sector is to provide maximum convenience and relief to consumers. He said reforms to the detection billing system would help protect consumer rights, improve transparency in the billing process, and further strengthen public confidence in the electricity system.
