How consumers can get electricity subsidy through Punjab’s new QR System?

LAHORE – The Punjab government has introduced a QR code–based system on electricity bills aimed at improving transparency in the distribution of electricity subsidies and ensuring that financial relief reaches only eligible households. As new QR System rolls out, the key question remains whether this digital approach will effectively deliver subsidies to the intended beneficiaries while preventing misuse in practice. Under the new initiative launched by the Punjab government, the consumers using up to 200 units of electricity per month will be able to access subsidies through a digital verification process linked directly to their electricity bills. The officials said the system is part of the broader “Cross Subsidy Program 2026,” which is designed to minimize misuse of subsidies and target support toward low-income households, including beneficiaries of the Benazir Income Support Programme and daily wage earners. How the subsidy system works Eligible consumers are required to scan the QR code printed on their electricity bill using a smartphone, which redirects them to an official government portal. There, the users must enter their 14-digit reference number along with their national identity card (CNIC) details. After submission, the verification is completed through a One-Time Password (OTP) sent to the registered mobile number. Once confirmed, the eligible users are registered under the subsidy scheme, and the relief is applied through the billing system. The Power Division Pakistan stated that the digital system will also help curb practices such as the use of multiple meters within a single household to unfairly claim additional subsidies. For individuals without smartphones or digital literacy, the government has established help desks at district and union council levels to assist with registration and verification. Officials have advised consumers to ensure that their bill details match their CNIC information to avoid delays or rejection in the verifi