MEPCO vs WAPDA — What is the Difference? Who Manages Your Electricity?

Many consumers in Pakistan use "WAPDA" and "MEPCO" interchangeably — but they are different organisations with different roles. Understanding this helps you know exactly who to contact for different issues.

Pakistan's Electricity System — The Four Key Players

What is WAPDA?

WAPDA (Water and Power Development Authority) was originally responsible for both generating and distributing electricity across Pakistan. In the 1990s, the distribution function was split into regional DISCOs (Distribution Companies). MEPCO is one of these DISCOs — technically a subsidiary of WAPDA. WAPDA now focuses on hydro power generation and water projects.

What is MEPCO?

MEPCO (Multan Electric Power Company) serves 13 districts of South Punjab: Multan, Bahawalpur, Dera Ghazi Khan, Muzaffargarh, Layyah, Lodhran, Vehari, Sahiwal, Pakpattan, Khanewal, Bahawalnagar, Rahim Yar Khan, and Rajanpur. It has over 7 million consumers — one of the largest distribution companies in Pakistan.

What is NEPRA?

NEPRA sets the electricity tariff that MEPCO charges you. When you see tariff changes on your bill, those changes were approved by NEPRA — not decided by MEPCO. NEPRA also handles consumer complaints that MEPCO fails to resolve.

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