LESCO to Ban Three-Phase Meters – but here’s why
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The Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) in Pakistan has decided to phase out three-phase meters for all consumers as part of its initiative to modernize its metering system and improve billing accuracy. This decision aligns with LESCO's broader efforts to enhance the efficiency and reliability of its electricity supply.
### Transition to Automatic Meter Reading (AMR) Meters
**New Metering System:**
- **AMR Meters:** LESCO is replacing traditional three-phase meters with Automatic Meter Reading (AMR) meters. These advanced meters are designed to provide more accurate billing, reduce the likelihood of overbilling, and prevent electricity theft.
**Consumer Costs:**
- **Installation Fee:** In the initial phase, consumers will need to pay an additional fee of Rs20,000 to Rs25,000 for the installation of AMR meters, reflecting their higher cost compared to traditional meters.
- **Meter Purchase:** LESCO will charge consumers Rs42,000 for the purchase of AMR meters.
### Benefits of AMR Meters
**For Consumers:**
- **Billing Accuracy:** AMR meters are expected to minimize overbilling issues.
- **Electricity Theft Prevention:** The new meters will help prevent unauthorized usage of electricity.
- **Online Billing Services:** Consumers will benefit from more convenient and modern billing services.
**For LESCO:**
- **Reduced Theft and Losses:** AMR technology will assist in identifying and reducing instances of electricity theft.
- **Operational Efficiency:** The use of modern technology will streamline LESCO's operations and enhance service delivery.
### Previous Success and Expansion
LESCO's decision to implement AMR meters follows the successful replacement of bidirectional meters used for solar systems with AMR meters. This previous initiative demonstrated significant benefits, likely influencing the company's decision to expand the use of AMR technology across its consumer base.
Overall, LESCO's move to discontinue three-phase meters and transition to AMR meters represents a significant step towards modernizing Pakistan's electricity infrastructure, promising numerous advantages for both consumers and the utility company.
