Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) has taken an important step to modernise the electricity billing system and has completed preparations to introduce smart metering and an online billing system. The aim of this initiative is to make the billing process more effective, fast and transparent so that accurate and timely billing facilities can be provided to the consumers.
According to LESCO sources, under this project, the Material Management Department has started the process of purchasing M2M (machine-to-machine) SIMs. These SIMs will directly connect the electricity meters of the consumers to the central control room of LESCO, as a result of which the meter reading data will be automatically available online.
Under the new system, the billing process will not only be faster, but also the chances of errors will be significantly reduced due to less human intervention. According to LESCO officials, this technology will ensure that consumers receive accurate bills, and complaints will also be reduced.
A key feature of the project is an automated system for defaulting consumers, through which the connection can be disconnected in case of non-payment. However, after the bill is paid, the concerned Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) will be given the authority to restore electricity online, which will eliminate the need for consumers to visit offices.
LESCO officials say that after the full implementation of the project, consumers will be able to view their electricity bills online and can also easily make payments through mobile apps or web portals.
According to experts associated with the energy sector, smart metering and M2M technology have become an indispensable requirement for electricity distribution companies. Experts say that this system will not only bring transparency in billing but will also help in reducing electricity theft and line losses, which is a positive development for the energy sector.
