ISLAMABAD (PEN) : A troubling revelation: power companies in Pakistan have been caught overbilling consumers by Rs8.44 billion, according to an official report.
The details show that Distribution Companies (DISCOs) inflated bills to cover their own line losses. Hyderabad Electric Supply Company (HESCO) overbilled by Rs1.73 billion, while Peshawar Electric Supply Company (PESCO) did so by Rs2.39 billion. Additionally, Lahore and Islamabad Electric Power Supply Companies together overbilled by more than Rs3 billion.
The report also implicated other companies, including FESCO, GEPCO, MEPCO, and QESCO, in similar practices aimed at concealing their line losses.
The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) has launched an inquiry in response to widespread complaints about inflated and incorrect bills during July and August. NEPRA’s 14-page report reveals that millions of consumers were overcharged and that no distribution company was billing accurately. The report highlighted issues with meter readings, noting that in some cases, the readings were either not taken or were deliberately omitted.
The power regulator’s findings have led to legal action against K-Electric (KE) and other companies, and the investigation aims to address the discrepancies and ensure fair billing practices moving forward.