FESCO Installs 183,403 Smart Meters for Accurate Billing

Key Points

FESCO has installed 183,403 AMI smart meters to date, including 146,823 single-phase meters.
The AMI system transmits consumption and meter reading data automatically to a central system, reducing reliance on manual meter reading.
Meter Data Management portal access has been extended to the subdivision level for faster resolution of consumer complaints.

FAISALABAD: Installation of the Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) smart metering system marks an important step towards accurate meter readings, effective monitoring of electricity consumption and transparent billing, said Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Faisalabad Electric Supply Company (FESCO) Engr. Muhammad Aamer.

He said the modern metering system would improve meter reading, data verification and billing processes while facilitating the timely identification and correction of meter reading issues.

Explaining the system, he said AMI enables the automatic transmission of electricity consumption and meter reading data from meters to a central system through a communication network. This improves data collection, monitoring and verification, reduces reliance on manual meter reading and helps minimize the possibility of reading errors.

“The primary objective is to ensure accurate billing based on actual electricity consumption and enhance transparency in the metering process,” he said.

Engr. Muhammad Aamer directed the officers and staff concerned to educate consumers about the benefits and installation procedure of AMI smart meters. He also instructed them to promptly investigate and resolve metering and billing complaints.

Faisalabad Declared Pakistan’s First Circular City

Director (AMI) Rao Muhammad Ali said that the AMI smart metering system was being continuously monitored, with regular checks on data received from meters at the central system. In the event of a communication interruption or technical fault, the meter and its communication status are checked in accordance with prescribed procedures, followed by necessary restoration and corrective measures.

He said any issue was addressed after examining and verifying the relevant metering records and available data to ensure billing accuracy and safeguard consumers interests.

Sharing installation figures, he said FESCO had installed 183,403 AMI meters to date, comprising 146,823 single-phase meters and 36,580 three-phase HT/LT and whole-current meters.

He added that access to the Meter Data Management (MDM) portal had been extended to the subdivision level. This allows AMI meters to be monitored directly by the respective subdivisions as well as FESCO Headquarters, facilitating faster resolution of consumer complaints.

Rao Muhammad Ali urged consumers to verify information through official FESCO sources instead of relying on unverified reports concerning smart metering or billing. He said the AMI Cell at FESCO Headquarters was fully operational and consumers could contact it for information and assistance regarding AMI-related issues.