Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) has increased the price of single-phase AMI smart meters by up to Rs6,000, according to a report aired by 24NewsHD on Tuesday.
Under the revised rates, the price of a single-phase smart AMI meter has been increased from Rs11,665 to Rs17,700, raising the cost for consumers applying for new electricity connections.
Notification Issued for New Pricing
The company’s Material Management Department had earlier issued a notification setting the meter price at Rs11,665.
However, the Director of Customer Services later issued another notification revising the price to Rs17,700, making the new rate applicable for consumers.
Static Meter Ban Drives Cost Increase
Previously, LESCO had set the price of single-phase static meters at Rs4,000.
Following the ban on static meters, the shift to smart meters has significantly increased costs. The overall difference between the earlier static meter price and the new smart meter price now stands at about Rs. 13,000.
Additional Charges for Longer Cable
Under the updated policy, consumers will receive a 10-meter cable along with the smart meter.
However, applicants requiring a cable longer than 10 meters will have to pay additional charges based on the required length.
Security Deposit Based on Load
Consumers applying for new electricity connections will also have to submit security demand notices in accordance with their approved electricity load, as per the company’s regulations.
