Previous Reading, Present Reading and Units Consumed

Your bill’s units consumed are generally the difference between the present meter reading and the previous meter reading, subject to the meter multiplier and any billing adjustments shown on the bill.

Independent information website; not an official FESCO or PITC service. Use the homepage bill checker to continue to the public billing workflow, or review how to find the reference number.

How the three figures connect

The previous reading is the meter index recorded for the earlier billing point. The present reading is the newer index. Subtracting the earlier index from the newer one gives the basic consumption for the period. If the bill shows a multiplication factor, that factor is applied as indicated. Always compare the printed figures with the meter details and billing period on the same bill.

Why the result may need context

A longer or shorter billing cycle, an estimated reading, meter replacement, correction, or an applicable multiplier can affect the relationship between the printed readings and billed units. Do not assume an error from one figure alone. Review the reading status, dates, meter number and any notes or adjustment lines.

A practical checking method

Take a clear photo of the meter on the date you check it. Compare its serial number with the bill, then compare the current index with the present reading. Small timing differences are normal because the meter continues recording after the official reading date. If the difference is large, keep the photo and bill before contacting FESCO through an official complaint channel.

What to do if the reading looks wrong

First rule out a digit-reading mistake and confirm that the correct meter is being viewed. Then check whether the bill identifies the reading as estimated or adjusted. If the concern remains, report the account identifiers, bill month, reading date and supporting meter photo. The utility, not this independent website, decides whether a correction is justified.

A careful bill-checking checklist

• Confirm the consumer name, address, meter number and tariff category.
• Check the billing period, reading dates and units before comparing totals.
• Separate energy charges, taxes, duties, adjustments, arrears and late-payment amounts.
• Use current official material from NEPRA, FESCO or the public PITC bill service.
• Keep complete copies when raising an account-specific complaint.

Frequently asked questions

Sources and review

This guide uses public information from FESCO, PITC and NEPRA and avoids presenting changeable rates as permanent facts. See our Sources and Fact-Checking policy. Reviewed for clarity and source alignment on 23 September 2026.