The Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) is reportedly reeling from a massive financial setback as electricity worth approximately Rs. 35.17 billion has vanished from its distribution and transmission network over the past fiscal year.
According to the latest Performance Evaluation Report (PER) for FY 2024-25 released by the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA), the utility failed to meet its regulatory targets for curbing system losses.
The report highlights that nearly one billion units of electricity were lost due to a combination of rampant power theft and a crumbling, outdated transmission infrastructure.
Despite LESCO’s highly publicized and ongoing crackdown, which involves daily raids, hundreds of arrests, and the registration of thousands of FIRs, the enforcement measures have largely proven ineffective in stopping the financial hemorrhage.
NEPRA’s data reveals that LESCO remains a major contributor to the country’s escalating circular debt, as its technical and distribution (T&D) losses continue to exceed prescribed limits.
The regulator noted that while some recovery improvements were seen in specific circles, the overall systemic inefficiencies and “dilapidated” state of the grid mean that billions of rupees continue to go down the drain annually, placing a heavy burden on the national exchequer and honest consumers.
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