WAPDA New Guidelines 2025: New Rules for Extra Electricity Meters at Home
What’s This Policy About?
- The government wants to stop people from manipulating electricity bills by using multiple meters to stay in lower-cost slabs.
- There were rumors about a full ban on having more than one meter, but the Power Division clarified those are false. A second meter is allowed if your house is truly divided into separate units.
- These rules also align with new smart‑meter (AMI) and net‑metering policies being rolled out.
Key Terms You Should Know
- Separate Living Unit (SLU): A portion of a house (a flat, wing, or floor) that has its own entrance, kitchen, plumbing, and electrical wiring.
- Subsidy & Slabs: If authorities find that multiple meters are being used to cheat the billing slabs, you may lose the subsidy protections.
- AMI (Advanced Metering Infrastructure): The new “smart” meters being installed that can send usage data digitally.
Who Can Get Extra Meters?
You can apply for a second or third meter only if:
- The property is genuinely split into distinct units (each functioning like a separate house).
- Each unit has its own entrance, plumbing, kitchen, wiring, etc.
- You can show legal documents, architectural drawings, or affidavits that confirm the separation.
- In other cases (where division is unclear or just for slab manipulation), the application may be rejected.
Steps to Install an Extra Meter
- Fill and submit an application at your local DISCO (e.g., LESCO, MEPCO) or through their online portal.
- Attach supporting documents: CNIC, property ownership or tenancy proof, drawings or plans, proof of separate wiring.
- DISCO engineers will inspect your place to verify the separation.
- You’ll get a demand notice listing how much you need to pay (for installation, materials, wiring).
- After payment, the extra meter is installed and sealed.
- Billing under the new connection begins after activation.
Costs & Fines (2025)
- Installing a new meter (standard) could cost Rs. 8,500+, depending on wiring and distance.
- Replacing an old meter with a smart (AMI) meter may cost around Rs. 35,000 in some places.
- If someone tampers with the meter or unseals it, fines can range from Rs. 60,000 to Rs. 200,000+.
- Misuse by splitting slabs illicitly can also lead to losing subsidy benefits.
Single Meter vs Multiple Meters — What Changes?
| Feature | Single Meter | Multiple Meters |
|---|---|---|
| Bill is simple | Yes | You’ll get separate bills for each unit |
| Misuse risk | Low | Higher (because of possible slab splitting) |
| Cost | Lower | Higher (extra meter, wiring) |
| Rules & checks | Fewer | More strict documentation & inspections |
| Penalty risk | Lower | High if not done properly |
Common Questions (FAQs)
- Is having two meters allowed now?
Yes, when your home truly is divided into separate units. There is no blanket ban. - Will I lose subsidy benefits?
You might, if the use of multiple meters is found to be manipulative. - What if I tamper with the meter?
You could face fines from Rs. 60,000 to Rs. 200,000+. - Is extra meter installation free?
No. You’ll need to pay for installation, wiring, materials, etc. - Does net metering affect this policy?
Yes — the new smart meters and net metering rules interact with this policy.
