Types of PESCO Connections Available
PESCO offers several categories of electricity connections based on the consumer's purpose and load requirements. Before applying, you need to determine the correct category and load for your needs, as this affects the application process, fees, and the tariff rate you will be charged. Most residential applicants need a single-phase connection for loads up to 5 kW, while commercial and industrial consumers typically require three-phase connections with higher load capacities.
| Connection Type | Load Capacity | Typical Use | Phase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Residential A1 | Up to 5 kW | Normal household with lights, fans, fridge, TV, AC | Single Phase |
| Residential A2 | 5 kW to 25 kW | Large house, multiple ACs, commercial-grade appliances | Three Phase |
| Commercial A1 | Up to 5 kW | Small shop, office | Single Phase |
| Commercial A2 | 5 kW to 500 kW | Larger business, market, mall | Three Phase |
| Industrial B1 | Up to 25 kW | Small workshop, cottage industry | Single/Three Phase |
| Industrial B2 | 25 kW to 500 kW | Factory, manufacturing unit | Three Phase |
| Agricultural (Tube Well) | As needed | Irrigation pump | Three Phase |
Required Documents for PESCO New Connection
| Document | Residential | Commercial | Industrial |
|---|---|---|---|
| CNIC copy | Required | Required | Required |
| Property ownership documents | Required | Required | Required |
| NOC from landowner (if renting) | Required | Required | Required |
| Building map/site plan | May be required | Required | Required |
| NTN (National Tax Number) | Not required | Required | Required |
| Business registration/NIC | Not required | Required | Required |
| Demand notice acceptance | Required | Required | Required |
| Security deposit receipt | Required | Required | Required |
| Passport-size photographs | 2 photos | 2 photos | 2 photos |
For properties in tribal or merged areas, additional documentation may be required including tribal jirga/maliki certification or deputy commissioner office approval, depending on the area's administrative structure.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Visit your nearest PESCO subdivision office and request a new connection application form (also sometimes called a demand note form).
- Fill out the application form completely. Specify the connection type (residential, commercial, industrial) and the load you require in kWatts.
- Attach all required documents: CNIC copies, property documents, photographs, and any applicable NOC or business registration.
- Submit the application at the subdivision office counter. You will receive an application receipt with a tracking number.
- PESCO will send a field team to inspect your premises and verify the documents within 7-15 days.
- After verification, PESCO issues a demand notice specifying the connection fee, security deposit, and any infrastructure contribution required.
- Pay the demand notice amount at the specified bank or payment channel. Obtain and keep the payment receipt.
- Submit the payment receipt to the subdivision office. PESCO then schedules the connection work.
- PESCO installs the meter and connects your premises to the grid. This may take 15-30 days after payment, depending on area and infrastructure availability.
- After installation, your first bill will be generated in the next billing cycle (typically within 30-45 days). Verify your meter reading at installation.
Connection Fees and Costs
The cost of a new PESCO connection depends on several factors including the connection type, load capacity, distance from the nearest transformer, and whether new infrastructure (poles, transformer, wiring) needs to be installed to reach your premises. In urban areas of Peshawar and Mardan, the connection cost is typically lower because existing infrastructure is closer. In rural and tribal areas, the cost can be significantly higher.
| Cost Component | Residential (5 kW) | Commercial (5 kW) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Application Fee | PKR 500-1,000 | PKR 1,000-2,000 | Non-refundable |
| Security Deposit | PKR 5,000-10,000 | PKR 10,000-25,000 | Refundable on connection closure |
| Service Connection Charges | PKR 5,000-15,000 | PKR 10,000-30,000 | Based on distance from transformer |
| Meter Cost | PKR 3,000-8,000 | PKR 5,000-15,000 | Electronic/digital meter |
| Infrastructure Contribution | If new infrastructure needed | If new infrastructure needed | Varies — can be PKR 50,000+ |
Processing Time and What to Expect
| Stage | Expected Timeline | What Happens |
|---|---|---|
| Application Submission | Day 1 | Form submitted, receipt issued |
| Site Inspection | 7-15 days | PESCO team visits your premises |
| Demand Notice Issued | 7-15 days after inspection | Fee structure communicated |
| Payment | Immediate (consumer's side) | Pay at designated bank |
| Payment Verification | 3-7 days | PESCO verifies bank receipt |
| Installation & Connection | 15-30 days after payment | Meter installed, power connected |
| First Bill | Next billing cycle (30-45 days) | First bill generated and delivered |
Total time from application to energization typically ranges from 45-90 days for residential connections in urban areas. In rural, tribal, or mountainous areas, this can extend to 3-6 months due to infrastructure requirements and logistical challenges. If your connection is delayed beyond the standard timeline, escalate through the PESCO complaint channels.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
- Application rejected due to incomplete documents — double-check all required documents before submission.
- Property ownership dispute flagged — provide clear property documents or NOC from the landowner.
- Demand notice amount seems excessive — request a detailed breakdown and compare with PESCO's published fee schedule.
- Installation delayed beyond 30 days after payment — file a written complaint at the subdivision office and request a timeline.
- Wrong tariff category applied — verify your connection category on the first bill and request correction immediately.
- Meter installed but no power — this can happen if the transformer or feeder line is not yet ready. Follow up at the subdivision office.
- Connection in someone else's name — ensure the name on the application matches the property documents.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply for a new PESCO connection?
Visit your nearest PESCO subdivision office, fill out the application form, submit required documents (CNIC, property papers, photos), and pay the fees after receiving the demand notice.
How much does a new PESCO residential connection cost?
A basic residential connection (up to 5 kW) typically costs PKR 15,000-35,000 total including application fee, security deposit, service charges, and meter cost. Infrastructure costs may apply separately.
How long does PESCO take to install a new connection?
Residential connections in urban areas typically take 45-90 days from application to energization. Rural and tribal areas may take 3-6 months.
What documents are needed for a PESCO connection?
You need CNIC copies, property ownership documents (or NOC from landlord), passport-size photographs, and possibly a site plan. Commercial and industrial connections also need NTN and business registration.
Can I apply for a PESCO connection online?
Currently, PESCO requires in-person application at the subdivision office. There is no fully online application process for new connections.
What is the security deposit for a PESCO connection?
The security deposit for a residential connection is typically PKR 5,000-10,000. It is refundable when the connection is permanently closed.
Can I get a connection if I am renting?
Yes, but you need a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the property owner along with the landlord's CNIC copy and property documents.
What happens if my application is rejected?
PESCO must provide a reason in writing. Common reasons include incomplete documents, disputed property, or no available infrastructure. Address the issue and reapply.
Can I upgrade my connection load later?
Yes. You can apply for a load enhancement at your subdivision office. This involves a new demand notice, additional fees, and potentially a meter upgrade.
What if someone else already has a connection at my address?
The existing connection must be closed or transferred before a new one can be issued. Contact the subdivision office for the transfer or closure process.