The Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) has significantly increased the price of single-phase AMI smart meters, raising concerns about the growing financial burden on electricity consumers.
According to an official notification, the price of a single-phase smart meter has been raised by around Rs. 6,000, bringing the new cost to Rs. 17,700, compared to the previous rate of Rs. 11,665.
Sources revealed that the Material Management department had issued a notification just days earlier, setting the price at Rs. 11,665. However, the Director of Customer Services later revised and approved the updated rate of Rs. 17,700.
The increase becomes more notable when compared to older pricing structures. Previously, a single-phase static meter cost around Rs. 4,000, meaning the shift to smart meters has resulted in an overall increase of approximately Rs. 13,000.
According to the official document, the revised price includes 10 meters of cable, while any additional cable required will be charged separately.
In addition, consumers applying for new electricity connections will also be required to submit a security demand notice based on their approved load, adding further to the upfront cost.
The price hike comes at a time when consumers are already facing rising electricity costs, potentially adding to concerns over affordability and access to new connections.
