LESCO vs Other DISCOs—How Lahore’s Electricity Bills Compare

Electricity bills are a major concern for households and businesses across Pakistan. Many consumers wonder: “Are LESCO bills higher than other DISCOs in the country?”

In this guide, we’ll compare LESCO (Lahore Electric Supply Company) with other major Distribution Companies (DISCOs) such as FESCO, IESCO, MEPCO, and GEPCO. You’ll learn how tariffs differ, why bills vary, and what you can do to manage electricity costs.

What are DISCOs in Pakistan?

DISCOs (Distribution Companies) are responsible for supplying electricity to different regions of Pakistan. They operate under the supervision of NEPRA (National Electric Power Regulatory Authority).

Here are the major DISCOs:

• LESCO – Lahore & surrounding districts
• FESCO – Faisalabad region
• IESCO – Islamabad & Rawalpindi
• MEPCO – Multan & South Punjab
• GEPCO – Gujranwala region
• Others: PESCO (Peshawar), HESCO (Hyderabad), SEPCO (Sukkur), QESCO (Quetta), KE (Karachi)

Tariff Comparison of DISCOs

Why Do Electricity Bills Differ Across DISCOs?

Several factors affect the final amount on your electricity bill:

1. Line Losses & Theft

Areas with high theft and transmission losses face higher surcharges to recover costs.

• LESCO: ~12% losses
• FESCO/IESCO: ~9–10% (lower)
• MEPCO/QESCO: ~20–30% (higher)

 

2. Fuel Price Adjustment (FPA)

• Adjusted monthly based on fuel used for generation.
• DISCOs with higher reliance on thermal plants see bigger FPAs.

 

3. Regional Surcharges

• Some DISCOs add surcharges to cover infrastructure and operational inefficiencies.

 

4. Service Quality

• IESCO and FESCO are known for fewer outages and better billing systems.
• MEPCO and QESCO face more complaints about delays, billing errors, and load shedding.

LESCO vs Other DISCOs—Which Is Better?

Factor	LESCO	FESCO	IESCO	MEPCO	GEPCO
Tariff (Avg.)	Moderate	Slightly lower	Lower	Higher	Moderate
Service Quality	Good in urban, weak in rural	Reliable	Very Reliable	Poor in rural	Moderate
Complaints Handling	Online+ Helpline	Efficient	Very Efficient	Slow	Average
Load Shedding	2–6 hrs (urban)	2–4 hrs	2–3 hrs	4–8 hrs	3–5 hrs
Line Losses %	12%	9%	10%	25%	13%

Best in Service Quality: IESCO

Best in Tariff Rates: FESCO & IESCO

Most Reliable for Businesses: LESCO & IESCO

How to Reduce Your Electricity Bill (No Matter the DISCO)

Regardless of which company supplies electricity, here are universal tips to save on bills:

• Install LED bulbs (60% less consumption)
• Use inverter ACs & refrigerators
• Turn off unused appliances
• Shift heavy appliances (iron, washing machine) to off-peak hours

Consider solar panels for long-term savings, check electricity bill of other companies and also understand bill charges.

Conclusion

In 2025, electricity rates across DISCOs remain similar in base tariffs but differ in surcharges, line losses, and service quality.

• LESCO bills are moderate compared to other DISCOs.
• IESCO & FESCO often have slightly lower bills and better service.
• MEPCO & QESCO face higher bills due to inefficiencies.

For Lahore residents, using LESCO’s online bill services (like billlescoonline.pk) ensures you never miss payments or due dates.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Why are LESCO bills higher than FESCO or IESCO?

Because of higher line losses and additional surcharges in Lahore compared to Faisalabad or Islamabad.

Q2. Which DISCO has the lowest electricity bills in Pakistan?

Generally, FESCO and IESCO due to lower line losses and better efficiency.

Q3. Does the tariff change every year?

Yes. NEPRA revises tariffs annually, plus monthly adjustments for fuel prices.

Q4. Is LESCO better than MEPCO in terms of service?

Yes. LESCO offers better online services and relatively fewer outages than MEPCO.

Q5. Can I switch from LESCO to another DISCO?

No. DISCOs operate region-wise—you are bound to the DISCO of your area.