The Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) has reportedly stopped issuing new bidirectional green meters to solar consumers because of a shortage of meters.
The limited stock has disrupted the meter issuance process across the LESCO region. Allocations submitted through the ERP code are also facing delays.
Solar consumers face delays
Many consumers have already installed solar systems and completed the required process for obtaining bidirectional meters. They were issued demand notices by LESCO under the net billing policy and deposited the required amounts.
The relevant LESCO offices completed the online processing required for meter issuance, after the demand notices were submitted.
The total demand for meters was then collected through different divisions and circles. These requirements were forwarded to LESCO’s Material Management Department for further processing.
However, the shortage of bidirectional meters has now affected the next stage of the process.
LESCO currently has limited stocks available, due to which the installation of meters for new solar connections has been affected. The replacement of faulty bidirectional meters is also facing delays.
Backlog of green meters
The shortage is creating difficulties for solar consumers who have already completed the required formalities and are waiting for their meters to be installed.
It has also created a backlog in meter allocations. The number of pending applications could increase if supplies remain limited.
Bidirectional meters are important for grid solar systems because they can measure electricity moving in both directions. They record electricity taken from the grid as well as surplus solar electricity supplied back to it.
Pakistan’s framework for new solar connections shifted toward net billing in 2026. Under this system, electricity imported from the grid and surplus electricity exported by solar consumers are accounted for separately.
Although, for consumers who have already paid their demand notices, the immediate issue is therefore the wait for meter availability and installation.