LESCO launches AMI-based smart meters to tackle power theft, overbilling

The Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) has initiated a new campaign to curb electricity theft and overbilling by deciding to install AMI-based single-phase smart meters across its service areas. 

The company has already begun the procurement process for these advanced meters, reported 24NewsHD TV channel on Sunday.

According to earlier reports from May 5, 2025, LESCO has barred large commercial and industrial consumers from buying smart meters directly from the market.

Instead, LESCO’s Material Management Department issued a notification instructing all such consumers to obtain demand notices from the company for meter installation. The company will now install smart meters only from its own certified stock, halting the issuance of No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for market purchases of Time-of-Use (TOU) smart meters.

The shift comes in response to a growing number of consumer complaints, particularly from those who had acquired valid NOCs but were unable to find approved meters in the market. One major reason cited was the non-availability of inspection certificates with authorised vendors, resulting in market-wide supply disruptions.

LESCO had earlier restricted the use of traditional TOU meters for LT-type connections, typically used for high-load commercial and industrial consumers, as part of a broader move to digitise and regulate power monitoring.

Initially, consumers were given the flexibility to procure meters from the market after receiving NOCs. However, continued shortages and certification issues have now prompted the company to fully centralise smart meter distribution under the demand notice system.

Reporter: Shahid Sipra