Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has pledged decisive action against officials involved in overbilling practices, calling for increased transparency in electricity billing. Speaking at a review meeting on Saturday, the Prime Minister emphasized the urgent need to expedite the installation of smart meters to ensure accurate billing and curb corruption.
“Overbilling will not be tolerated,” PM Shehbaz stated firmly. “Officers found guilty will face strict action. The timely installation of smart meters is crucial to maintaining transparency in the system and must be completed promptly.”
The meeting, chaired by the premier, focused on the operational challenges of Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO), Peshawar Electric Supply Company (PESCO), and Faisalabad Electric Supply Company (FESCO). Concerns were raised regarding delays in appointing chief executive officers (CEOs) for these companies, with Shehbaz Sharif insisting that the recruitment process be transparent and merit-based.
Sharif also highlighted the importance of meeting targets set by the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) and ensuring the efficient use of resources to enhance company performance.
A performance review revealed recovery rates of 96.82% for LESCO, 87.98% for PESCO, and 97.57% for FESCO as of November 2024. However, transmission and distribution losses remained significant, with LESCO reporting a loss of 13.04%, PESCO 33%, and FESCO 6.01%.
The Prime Minister expressed dissatisfaction with the progress in smart meter installations. Of the 223,365 three-phase smart meters targeted by LESCO, only 49,470 have been installed. Similarly, PESCO has installed 51,173 of its target of 152,559 meters, while FESCO has only 11,276 out of its target of 192,311.
The meeting also addressed customer service initiatives, including call centers, websites, and NEPRA-integrated complaint platforms. Consumer complaints registered till November 2024 were 99.2% for LESCO, 99.9% for PESCO, and 99.7% for FESCO. The helpline 118 remains free of charge for electricity-related grievances.
The meeting was attended by Federal Ministers Ahad Khan Cheema, Sardar Owais Ahmed Khan Leghari, Shaza Fatima, Ali Pervez Malik, and other senior officials.
