How LESCO Load Shedding Works
Load shedding is the planned disconnection of electricity to certain areas when power supply is insufficient to meet total demand. LESCO implements load shedding on a rotational group-based system where different areas are assigned to feeder groups, and each group has scheduled power outage windows.
The duration and frequency of load shedding depends on the national supply-demand gap, the season (summer sees more load shedding due to AC usage), and LESCO's line losses performance. Areas with higher electricity theft or lower bill recovery rates typically face longer load shedding durations.
Load Shedding Groups and Categories
| Category | Load Shedding Duration | Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| Group A (Best performing) | 0–2 hours/day | Less than 10% losses, high recovery |
| Group B | 2–4 hours/day | 10–20% losses |
| Group C | 4–6 hours/day | 20–30% losses |
| Group D (Worst performing) | 6–10 hours/day | Above 30% losses, low recovery |
| Industrial Feeders | Minimal to none | Protected for economic activity |
| Government/Essential | Exempt | Hospitals, military, water supply |
Seasonal Load Shedding Patterns
Load shedding in the LESCO region follows predictable seasonal patterns. Summer (June–September) sees the highest electricity demand due to air conditioning, fans, and cooling. The national grid often runs a supply deficit of 2,000–5,000 MW during peak summer, resulting in increased load shedding.
Seasonal load shedding expectations
| Season | Months | Typical Duration | Peak Hours Load Shedding |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summer Peak | Jul–Aug | 4–8 hours | Heaviest |
| Summer Shoulder | Jun, Sep | 2–5 hours | Moderate to heavy |
| Spring/Autumn | Mar–May, Oct–Nov | 1–3 hours | Light |
| Winter | Dec–Feb | 0–2 hours | Minimal to none |
How to Find Your LESCO Load Shedding Schedule
- Check the LESCO website (lesco.gov.pk) for official load shedding schedules by area and feeder group
- Call the LESCO helpline at 0800-11-332 and ask for your area's feeder group and schedule
- Visit your nearest LESCO subdivision office — they post schedules on notice boards
- Download the LESCO mobile app (if available) for push notifications about outages
- Check local community WhatsApp groups — residents often share real-time outage information
- Your electricity bill may reference your feeder group in the technical details section
Areas Exempt from LESCO Load Shedding
Certain areas in Lahore and LESCO's jurisdiction receive exemption or reduced load shedding due to their essential nature or premium feeder classification.
Typically exempt or reduced load shedding areas
- Government buildings, military installations, and diplomatic zones
- Major hospitals and medical facilities
- Industrial estates and SEZs (Special Economic Zones)
- Water supply and sewerage pumping stations
- DHA, Bahria Town, and some gated communities (own transformers, low losses)
- Airport and aviation-related areas
How to Reduce Load Shedding Impact
While you cannot control the load shedding schedule, you can mitigate its impact on your daily life through planning and backup solutions.
- Install a solar system with battery backup for uninterrupted power
- Use a UPS system for essential electronics (computers, internet routers, lights)
- Invest in an inverter-based generator for extended outages
- Charge devices and powerbanks during availability hours
- Plan cooking, laundry, and water pumping around your outage schedule
- Use LED lights that work efficiently on UPS battery power
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current LESCO load shedding schedule?
The schedule varies by feeder group and season. Check the LESCO website (lesco.gov.pk), call the helpline 0800-11-332, or visit your subdivision office for the latest schedule applicable to your area.
Why does my area have more load shedding than others?
Load shedding duration is based on feeder group performance — areas with higher electricity theft or lower bill recovery on the same feeder face longer outages regardless of individual payment records.
Does paying my LESCO bill on time reduce load shedding?
Your individual payment does not directly reduce your load shedding. However, if overall feeder recovery improves (more people on your feeder pay), the feeder may be reclassified to a better group.
Is there load shedding in DHA Lahore?
DHA and similar planned communities typically have dedicated transformers with lower losses, placing them in better feeder groups with minimal or no load shedding.
How many hours of load shedding is normal in Lahore?
In summer peak (July–August), most Lahore areas experience 4–8 hours daily. In winter, load shedding may drop to 0–2 hours. Premium areas may see less.
Can I report unscheduled LESCO load shedding?
Yes. Unscheduled outages should be reported to the LESCO helpline at 0800-11-332. If there is a fault on your feeder, they will dispatch a repair crew.
Does LESCO provide advance notice for load shedding?
Scheduled load shedding follows a fixed rotation, so the timing is predictable once you know your group. Unscheduled maintenance outages may be notified through local media or LESCO's social media channels.
What size UPS do I need for LESCO load shedding?
For basic needs (2–3 fans, LED lights, WiFi router), a 1000VA UPS with 2 batteries is sufficient for 3–4 hours. For running an AC, you need a 3000VA+ inverter system with 4+ batteries.
Is there a LESCO load shedding app?
LESCO is developing digital tools for outage notifications. Currently, the most reliable sources are the LESCO website, helpline, and community-based information groups.
Can I get exemption from LESCO load shedding?
Individual residential consumers cannot get exemptions. However, if you install a solar system, you generate your own power during daylight hours, effectively bypassing daytime load shedding.