Guide to Checking Your GEPCO Demand Notice

Understanding your electricity demand notice from the Gujranwala Electric Power Company Limited (GEPCO) is crucial for managing your energy costs and ensuring you comply with any billing requirements. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of checking your GEPCO demand notice, understanding its components, and addressing any issues you might encounter. We’ll provide step-by-step instructions, practical examples, and solutions to common problems.

What is a Demand Notice?

A demand notice is an official document issued by GEPCO that details the charges for electricity consumed and any other associated fees. It is an important tool for consumers to track their energy usage, understand their billing, and make timely payments.

Why is it Important to Check Your Demand Notice?

Regularly checking your demand notice is essential for several reasons:

• Accuracy: Ensure that the readings and charges are correct.
• Timeliness: Avoid late fees and disconnections by making timely payments.
• Budgeting: Manage your household or business budget effectively.
• Discrepancies: Identify and resolve any discrepancies early on.

How to Access Your GEPCO Demand Notice

Step 1: Online Portal Registration

1. Visit the GEPCO Website: Go to the official GEPCO website (http://www.gepco.com.pk/).
2. Register/Login: If you are a new user, register for an account by providing your personal and connection details. If you already have an account, simply log in using your credentials.

2nd Step: Access Your Demand Notice

1. Navigate to the Billing Section: Once logged in, find the section for billing or demand notices.
2. Enter Your Reference Number: This number is unique to your electricity connection and can be found on your previous bills or meter.
3. View Your Demand Notice: After entering the reference number, your current demand notice will be displayed.

Step 3: Download or Print

For your records, you can download or print the demand notice. This is useful for future reference and when making payments.

Components of a GEPCO Demand Notice

Understanding the various components of your demand notice can help you verify its accuracy. Here’s a breakdown of the typical sections you will find:

1. Consumer Information

• Name: The registered name of the account holder.
• Address: The location of the electricity connection.
• Reference Number: A unique identifier for your account.

2. Billing Period

• From and To Dates: The period for which the billing is calculated.
• Issue Date: The date the demand notice was generated.
• Due Date: The last date by which payment must be made to avoid penalties.

3. Meter Readings

• Previous Reading: The meter reading recorded during the last billing cycle.
• Current Reading: The latest meter reading.
• Units Consumed: The difference between the previous and current readings, indicating the total energy consumed.

4. Tariff Details

• Slab Rates: The rates applicable based on your consumption.
• Total Units Consumed: Categorized into different slabs if applicable.

5. Charges Breakdown

• Energy Charges: The cost for the total units consumed.
• Fixed Charges: Any fixed fees applicable irrespective of usage.
• Fuel Adjustment Charges: Adjustments based on fuel price variations.
• Taxes and Levies: Government-imposed taxes and other charges.
• Late Payment Surcharge: Additional charges if there were late payments in the past.

6. Total Amount Due

• Total Payable Amount: The sum of all charges, including any previous balances.

Practical Example of Checking a Demand Notice

Let’s walk through a practical example of checking and understanding a GEPCO demand notice.

Example Scenario

• Consumer Name: Ali Khan
• Address: House No. 123, Street 45, Gujranwala
• Reference Number: 1234567890
• Previous Reading: 1500 kWh
• Current Reading: 1800 kWh

Steps

1. Calculate Units Consumed:
   • Current Reading – Previous Reading = 1800 kWh – 1500 kWh = 300 kWh
2. Determine Tariff Rates (For residential customers):
   • First 100 Units: 100 kWh * Rs. 22 = Rs. 2,200
   • Next 100 Units: 100 kWh * Rs. 32 = Rs. 3,200
   • Remaining 100 Units: 100 kWh * Rs. 37 = Rs. 3,700
3. Energy Charges:
   • Rs. 2,200 + Rs. 3,200 + Rs. 3,700 = Rs. 9,100
4. Fixed Charges:
   • Rs. 200 (example)
5. Fuel Adjustment Charges:
   • Rs. 300 (example)
6. Taxes and Levies:
   • Rs. 400 (example)
7. Total Payable Amount:
   • Rs. 9,100 + Rs. 200 + Rs. 300 + Rs. 400 = Rs. 10,000

Result

Ali Khan’s demand notice will indicate a total payable amount of Rs. 10,000 for the billing period.

Common Issues and Solutions

Issue: Incorrect Meter Reading

Solution:

• Verify Readings: Compare the current meter reading with the reading on the demand notice.
• Report Discrepancies: Contact GEPCO customer service to report any discrepancies.
• Provide Evidence: Take a photograph of your current meter reading as proof.

Issue: Unexpectedly High Bill

Solution:

• Review Usage: Analyze your electricity usage for the billing period. Check if there was any high consumption due to seasonal changes, new appliances, or increased usage.
• Check Tariff Rates: Ensure that the correct slab rates were applied.
• Inspect for Faults: Ensure there are no electrical faults or leaks that could be causing higher consumption.

Issue: Late Payment Surcharge

Solution:

• Timely Payment: Always pay your bill before the due date to avoid late payment charges.
• Automated Payments: Set up automated payments through your bank to ensure timely payment.

Tips for Managing Your Electricity Bill

1. Monitor Usage Regularly: Keep track of your daily or weekly consumption to avoid surprises.
2. Use Energy-Efficient Appliances: Invest in energy-efficient appliances to reduce consumption.
3. Optimize Appliance Usage: Use high-energy appliances during off-peak hours.
4. Check for Leaks: Regularly inspect your home for any electrical leaks or faults.
5. Adjust to Seasonal Changes: Anticipate higher usage during extreme weather conditions and plan accordingly.

Conclusion

Checking your GEPCO demand notice regularly is essential for managing your electricity costs and ensuring accuracy in your billing. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can effectively monitor your consumption, understand your bill components, and address any issues promptly. This proactive approach will help you stay on top of your energy usage, avoid unnecessary charges, and manage your household or business budget efficiently.

For further assistance, always feel free to contact GEPCO customer service. They can provide you with detailed explanations and help resolve any discrepancies or concerns you may have. Stay informed, stay proactive, and manage your electricity consumption effectively with this comprehensive guide.