LESCO Solar Meter Relief: LESCO Cuts Meter Costs by Rs 125,000
In a landmark move accelerating Pakistan’s solar transition, the Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) has slashed solar meter costs by Rs 125,000 per connection by eliminating mandatory backup meters. This LESCO Solar meter relief policy shift, effective June 2025, directly benefits 12,000+ residential and commercial solar users across Punjab. Crucially, the savings empower consumers to redirect funds toward other priorities—whether expanding businesses, upgrading home appliances, or enjoying digital leisure platforms like 92 Pak Game while staying energy-independent .
Breakdown of the Rs 125,000 Savings
| Cost Component | Old Charge | New Charge | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| LT TOU Meter | Rs 45,000 | Rs 0* | Rs 45,000 |
| Auto Transformer (AT) | Rs 80,000 | Rs 0* | Rs 80,000 |
| Total | Rs 125,000 | Rs 0 | Rs 125,000 |
| *Backup meter/AT box no longer required; single bidirectional meter suffices . |
Who Benefits? Eligibility Criteria
- Residential Users:
- Existing solar systems (1-5 kW) needing meter upgrades .
- New connections applying under net metering .
- Commercial/Industrial:
- Factories, shops, and SMEs with 5-500 kW solar systems .
- Agricultural tube wells converting to solar .
- Exclusions:
- Systems without LESCO-approved inverters .
- Installations in high-theft zones (requires additional clearance) .
LESCO Solar Meter Relief Application Process: 4 Simplified Steps
- Submit Documents: CNIC, property ownership proof, solar installation certificate .
- LESCO Inspection: Technical team verifies system compliance (72-hour turnaround) .
- Meter Installation: Single bidirectional meter fitted within 10 days .
- Net Metering Activation: Export/import tracking begins immediately .
Strategic Impact: Beyond Consumer Pockets
- Solar Adoption Surge: Applications rose 40% in Lahore since June 2025 .
- Grid Stability: Reduced daytime demand from commercial users .
- Theft Deterrence: Tamper-proof meters lower losses on 291 high-theft feeders .
- Economic Ripple Effect:
- Rs 125,000 savings ≈ 6 months of free gaming on 92 Pak Game for households .
- Capital freed for SME expansion (e.g., shops adding refrigeration) .
Digital Lifestyle Boost
Beyond practical savings, the policy enables unexpected lifestyle upgrades. Many young professionals now allocate their solar savings toward digital subscriptions – from productivity tools to entertainment platforms. This discretionary spending power injects vitality into Pakistan’s digital economy while improving work-life balance. As energy independence grows, so does the freedom to invest in personal passions and leisure, creating a ripple effect across multiple sectors from tech to creative industries.
Critical Considerations
- Voltage Fluctuations: Bidirectional meters malfunction during low-voltage periods (common in LESCO’s 77 worst-performing feeders) .
- Hidden Costs: Wiring upgrades may add Rs 15,000–20,000 for older properties .
- Timeline Delays: 30% applications face 3-week+ waits due to inspection backlogs .
The Bigger Picture: Pakistan’s Solar Revolution
LESCO’s policy aligns with federal tax exemptions on solar imports until 2026. This trifecta—lower equipment costs, simplified approvals, and meter relief—could push Punjab’s solar capacity beyond 2,000 MW by 2026 . For consumers, it’s more than savings: it’s energy democracy.