LESCO raise fee for new single-phase meter connections

The Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) is planning to introduce Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) single-phase smart meters for new electricity connections.

According to reports, LESCO will purchase around 345,000 smart meters, costing between Rs. 3 to 4 billion. Each AMI smart meter is nearly twice as expensive as a normal single-phase meter. The exact cost will be finalized once meter manufacturers submit their price proposals.

Higher Demand Notice Fee Expected

With the shift to smart meters, LESCO is likely to increase the demand notice fee for new single-phase connections. This means consumers may have to pay more when applying for a fresh connection.

Why Smart Meters?

The company says these smart meters will help in:

• Reducing electricity theft

• Preventing overbilling

• Ensuring accurate, real-time monitoring

LESCO has already started using smart meters in three-phase and LT TOU categories as part of its modernization plan.

Current Fee Situation

On LESCO’s official website, the estimated cost of a new single-phase meter connection is Rs. 7,240. However, in many sub-divisions of Lahore, consumers report being charged between Rs. 18,000 and Rs. 25,000 for a new connection.

With the introduction of smart meters, this fee is expected to rise further.

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