The Lahore Electric Supply Company (Lesco) has implemented a significant increase in the installation charges for new electric meters. The board of directors approved raising the fee from Rs 6,400 to Rs 21,300, marking a substantial rise that will affect all new power connection applicants.
Under the revised fee structure, consumers are now required to pay Rs 17,700 for the meter and associated cabling, in addition to a separate security deposit of Rs 3,600. Previously, the installation fee stood at Rs 4,000 with an additional Rs 2,400 charged for security. This adjustment represents a sharp escalation in upfront costs for electricity consumers.
Beyond the official charges, consumers will also incur contractor fees and other miscellaneous expenses, which collectively have caused the total cost to multiply several times compared to earlier payments. This development has sparked concerns among consumers about the affordability of new electricity connections.
Notably, while some Lesco officials reportedly opposed the fee hike, the chairman and board members insisted on enforcing the increase, which has taken effect immediately. Consequently, all applicants seeking new electric connections must now prepare to pay this substantially higher amount as part of the application process.
