Overview of LESCO Tariff System
LESCO follows the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) uniform tariff schedule applicable across all distribution companies in Pakistan. The tariff is structured as a progressive slab system for residential consumers, meaning the per-unit rate increases as your consumption rises. This system is designed to protect low-consumption households while ensuring those who use more contribute proportionally.
For commercial, industrial, and agricultural consumers, different tariff categories apply with their own rate structures. Understanding your specific tariff category is essential for accurate bill estimation and for identifying potential savings through category reclassification or operational changes.
Residential Tariff Slabs (A-1 Category)
| Slab | Consumption Range | Per-Unit Rate (Rs) | Fixed Charges | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Protected | 1–100 kWh | 7.74 | None | Lowest rate for essential usage |
| Slab 2 | 101–200 kWh | 11.50 | None | Moderate consumption |
| Slab 3 | 201–300 kWh | 16.00 | None | Average household |
| Slab 4 | 301–400 kWh | 20.70 | None | AC/heating usage |
| Slab 5 | 401–500 kWh | 24.20 | None | Heavy usage |
| Slab 6 | 501–600 kWh | 27.30 | None | Multiple ACs |
| Slab 7 | 601–700 kWh | 30.00 | None | Very heavy usage |
| Slab 8 | 700+ kWh | 35.00+ | None | Highest bracket |
Commercial Tariff (A-2 Category)
Commercial connections in the LESCO region — including shops, offices, restaurants, and commercial plazas — are billed under the A-2 category. Unlike residential, commercial rates do not follow a slab system. Instead, there is a uniform per-unit rate plus demand charges based on your sanctioned load.
| Load Capacity | Energy Charge (Rs/kWh) | Demand Charge (Rs/kW/month) |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 5 kW | 22.50 | 200 |
| 5–50 kW | 23.80 | 380 |
| 50–500 kW | 24.50 | 380 |
| Above 500 kW | 25.00 | 380 |
Industrial Tariff (B Category)
Industrial consumers in Lahore's industrial zones benefit from time-of-use (ToU) pricing that rewards shifting production to off-peak hours. Peak rates are higher, but off-peak rates can be significantly lower than even residential rates — making nighttime production very cost-effective.
| Category | Peak Rate (Rs/kWh) | Off-Peak Rate (Rs/kWh) | Demand Charge (Rs/kW) |
|---|---|---|---|
| B-1 (Small) | 22.00 | 16.50 | 380 |
| B-2 (Medium) | 22.00 | 16.50 | 380 |
| B-3 (Large) | 22.00 | 16.50 | 380 |
| B-4 (Bulk) | 22.00 | 16.50 | 380 |
Agricultural Tariff (C Category)
Agricultural tube-well connections receive subsidized tariff rates to support Pakistan's farming sector. SCARP tube-wells and private agricultural tube-wells have different rate structures. These connections are identified by their specific meter and account categorization.
Seasonal Variations and Peak Hours for LESCO
LESCO tariffs include seasonal peak-hour pricing for ToU meter consumers. During peak hours, the per-unit rate is higher than during off-peak hours. The peak hours vary by season.
LESCO peak hours by season
| Season | Months | Peak Hours | Off-Peak Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winter | Dec–Feb | 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM | 9:00 PM – 5:00 PM |
| Spring | Mar–May | 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM | 10:00 PM – 6:00 PM |
| Summer | Jun–Aug | 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM | 11:00 PM – 7:00 PM |
| Autumn | Sep–Nov | 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM | 10:00 PM – 6:00 PM |
How LESCO Tariffs Compare to Other DISCOs
Since all DISCOs follow the NEPRA uniform tariff, the base slab rates are the same across LESCO, MEPCO, FESCO, GEPCO, and others. The difference in final bill amounts comes from FPA variations (as each DISCO's fuel mix differs slightly), transmission loss surcharges, and the efficiency of the local distribution network.
LESCO is one of the more efficient DISCOs with lower transmission and distribution losses compared to HESCO, SEPCO, or QESCO. This can translate to marginally lower FPA charges for LESCO consumers in some billing cycles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are LESCO rates the same across all of its service area?
Yes. LESCO charges the same NEPRA-determined tariff rates in Lahore, Kasur, Sheikhupura, Okara, and Nankana Sahib. There is no regional variation within LESCO's jurisdiction.
How often do LESCO tariff rates change?
NEPRA reviews tariffs annually, typically announcing new rates for the fiscal year starting July. Additional mid-year adjustments may occur through quarterly tariff adjustments or FPA notifications.
What is the cheapest electricity slab in LESCO?
The protected slab (1–100 units) at Rs 7.74/kWh is the cheapest. This rate is designed to make essential electricity affordable for low-income households.
Do LESCO commercial rates include GST?
The rates quoted in NEPRA determinations are exclusive of GST and other taxes. Commercial consumers pay the base energy charge plus 17% GST, income tax withholding, and other applicable duties.
Can I switch from commercial to residential tariff?
Tariff category depends on the purpose of your connection, not your preference. If your premises is genuinely residential but incorrectly categorized, you can apply to LESCO for reclassification with supporting documentation.
What is the industrial ToU benefit for LESCO consumers?
Industrial ToU consumers pay lower off-peak rates (approximately Rs 16.50/kWh) compared to peak rates (Rs 22/kWh). Factories operating night shifts can reduce electricity costs by 25–30% by maximizing off-peak production.
Is there a lifeline rate for LESCO consumers?
Yes. Consumers using up to 50 units per month qualify for the lifeline/protected tariff with the lowest per-unit rate and exemption from certain taxes and surcharges.
How does FPA affect LESCO tariff rates?
FPA is added on top of the base tariff rates. If the FPA for a given month is Rs 3/unit and you consume 300 units, that adds Rs 900 to your bill before taxes. FPA rates change monthly.
Why is my per-unit cost higher than the slab rate?
The stated slab rate is the base tariff only. When you add FPA (Rs 1–5/unit), GST (17%), income tax, duties, and fees, the effective per-unit cost is 30–50% higher than the base rate.
Can I check my LESCO tariff category online?
Your tariff category is printed on your electricity bill next to the meter number. You can view it by checking your bill online through the PITC portal using your reference number.