Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) has started reinstalling old electricity meters at locations where meters were previously burnt, damaged or removed for different reasons, according to sources.
The development involves meters that had been taken out of service and subsequently examined through laboratory testing. The process is particularly linked to single-phase and three-phase meters removed in cases involving net metering and net billing.
Sources said laboratory reports for the removed electricity meters have already been obtained. These reports are being used to determine the condition of meters before they are considered for reinstallation.
Meters declared to be in proper working condition through laboratory reports are being reused as replacements. According to the available information, such meters are being installed against connections carrying defective-meter codes.
The move could allow LESCO to make use of meters that remain operational instead of keeping them out of service after their removal. It also reflects the company’s ongoing efforts to manage its available electricity metering equipment.
Electricity meters play an important role in accurately recording consumer consumption and, in the case of net metering and net billing customers, tracking electricity supplied to and received from the power distribution system.
The condition and testing of meters can therefore be particularly important when dealing with connections associated with solar power and net-metering arrangements. Laboratory verification provides a basis for determining whether a removed meter remains suitable for further use.
The latest measure is expected to affect consumers whose meters were previously removed because of damage, burning or other reported issues. The replacement process will depend on the relevant laboratory findings and LESCO’s operational procedures.
For electricity consumers, the use of previously installed meters may also raise questions about meter condition, testing and billing accuracy. Proper verification is important to ensure that a meter being reused is functioning correctly and accurately records electricity consumption.
LESCO is one of Pakistan’s major electricity distribution companies and serves consumers across Lahore and surrounding areas. Meter replacement and maintenance are among the routine operational activities required to maintain reliable electricity connections.
The development comes as electricity distribution companies continue to manage large numbers of residential, commercial and industrial connections. Ensuring the availability of functional meters remains an important part of maintaining an effective billing and distribution system.
As LESCO proceeds with the replacement of damaged and burnt meters, laboratory reports are expected to remain a key factor in determining which removed meters can be returned to service.