What Is a LESCO Tariff?

A tariff is the price you pay for the electricity you consume. It’s like a bill for using electricity, and it is calculated based on how much power you use over a certain period, typically a month. This bill isn’t just a flat fee; it varies depending on different factors like how much electricity you use, what kind of user you are, and the time of year.

LESCO’s tariff structure is designed to ensure fair pricing while also encouraging people to use energy wisely and efficiently. Understanding your electricity tariff is important because it helps you manage your energy costs and avoid any unexpected high bills.

Check Your LESCO Duplicate Bills Here.

Different Types of LESCO Tariffs

LESCO divides its tariffs into categories based on the type of consumer. The company recognizes that different people and businesses use electricity in different ways, so they have created separate tariff rates to match the specific needs of each group.

Here are the main types of tariffs used by LESCO:

Domestic Tariff Rates

LESCO offers a tiered tariff system for residential (domestic) consumers, with rates increasing as more electricity is used.

1. For Protected Consumers (Load Less Than 5kW)

Protected consumers are typically low-usage households that consume less than 200 units of electricity per month. They benefit from lower rates to make electricity more affordable for them.

• Up to 50 units: Rs. 3.95 per unit
• 51-100 units: Rs. 7.74 per unit
• 101-200 units: Rs. 10.06 per unit

Protected status can help lower-income households manage their electricity costs. However, if usage exceeds 200 units, the consumer is no longer considered “protected” and is charged at higher rates.

2. For Unprotected Consumers

Unprotected consumers use more than 200 units per month and pay higher rates as their electricity consumption increases.

• 1-100 units: Rs. 16.48 per unit
• 101-200 units: Rs. 22.95 per unit
• 201-300 units: Rs. 27.14 per unit
• 301-400 units: Rs. 32.03 per unit
• 401-500 units: Rs. 35.24 per unit
• 501-600 units: Rs. 36.66 per unit
• 601-700 units: Rs. 37.80 per unit
• Above 700 units: Rs. 42.72 per unit​

Commercial Tariff Rates

For businesses, LESCO applies a different set of rates, depending on the size of the business and the amount of electricity consumed. Commercial tariffs are generally higher than domestic tariffs due to the higher electricity demands of commercial operations.

• For loads less than 5kW: Rs. 37.75 per unit
• For loads 5kW and above: Rs. 39.43 per unit

LESCO also offers Time-of-Use (ToU) tariffs for businesses with higher loads, where the cost of electricity varies depending on the time of day. This encourages businesses to use more power during off-peak hours when electricity is cheaper.

• Peak hours: Rs. 41.35 per unit
• Off-peak hours: Rs. 35.38 per unit

Industrial Tariff Rates

For industrial consumers, LESCO’s tariff rates vary based on the size and electricity consumption of the business. Like commercial tariffs, industrial rates also follow a Time-of-Use (ToU) system, which differentiates peak and off-peak rates.

1. B1 Industrial Category (Up to 25kW)

• Regular rate: Rs. 34.33 per unit
• Peak hours: Rs. 37.89 per unit
• Off-peak hours: Rs. 32.33 per unit

2. B2 Industrial Category (Exceeding 25kW)

• Regular rate: Rs. 33.83 per unit
• Peak hours: Rs. 37.83 per unit
• Off-peak hours: Rs. 32.12 per unit

Fuel Price Adjustment (FPA)

Another critical aspect of your LESCO bill is the Fuel Price Adjustment (FPA). The FPA is applied to reflect changes in fuel prices used to generate electricity. In 2024, the FPA was set at Rs. 3.41 per unit, meaning your final bill can vary from month to month depending on fuel costs. This surcharge can significantly increase your bill, especially if fuel prices rise

Understanding Your LESCO Bill

When you receive your LESCO bill, it will include:

• Meter reading: The number of units you consumed during the billing period.
• Base tariff: The cost per unit according to your consumption category (domestic, commercial, or industrial).
• FPA surcharge: This reflects any changes in fuel costs.
• Taxes and surcharges: Additional government taxes, which may include GST and other fees.

By understanding your tariff category and keeping track of your usage, you can avoid surprises in your bill and manage your electricity consumption more efficiently.

How to Save on Your Electricity Bill

To keep your LESCO bills as low as possible, here are a few tips:

• Use energy-efficient appliances: Appliances that consume less energy can significantly reduce your electricity usage.
• Avoid peak hours: If possible, shift energy-intensive activities (like laundry or using heavy machinery) to off-peak hours to benefit from lower rates.
• Turn off unused devices: Small habits, like turning off lights and fans when not in use, can add up to big savings over time.
• Monitor your consumption: Keep an eye on your electricity usage and try to stay within lower tariff brackets to avoid higher rates.

FAQ’s

What are the current LESCO rates for domestic consumers in 2024? 

LESCO has a tiered pricing structure for residential users, where the rates increase with higher consumption. For instance, protected consumers pay lower rates for up to 200 units. After that, unprotected rates apply, with prices rising significantly for consumption above 300 units.

How do Time-of-Use (ToU) tariffs work in LESCO? 

Time-of-Use tariffs charge different rates depending on the time of day. During peak hours, when electricity demand is highest, rates are higher. Off-peak hours offer lower rates to encourage usage during less busy periods.

What is the Fuel Price Adjustment (FPA) on my LESCO bill? 

The Fuel Price Adjustment (FPA) is a variable charge applied to your bill to cover fluctuations in the cost of fuel used for generating electricity. It changes monthly based on fuel prices and can have a significant impact on your final bill.

What are the LESCO tariffs for commercial users in 2024? 

Commercial tariffs are typically higher than residential tariffs. The rates depend on the load, with additional charges during peak hours. Larger commercial users may also be subject to Time-of-Use rates.

What are the minimum monthly charges if no electricity is used? 

Even if no electricity is consumed, LESCO imposes a minimum charge for maintaining the connection. For single-phase connections, the charge is Rs. 75 per month, and for three-phase connections, it is Rs. 150 per month.

How can I calculate my LESCO electricity bill? 

To calculate your bill, first determine how many units of electricity you used during the billing cycle. Multiply the units consumed by the applicable tariff rate, then add any additional charges like FPA or government taxes. LESCO also provides an online bill calculator for accurate estimates.