tamperfinderAdani Electricity Mumbai Limited (AEML) has undertaken extensive measures to combat power theft. Recently, their vigilance team uncovered an instance of sophisticated power theft where the energy meter was tampered with, resulting in a reduction of recorded consumption by 70-80%. This incident prompted the filing of FIR, drawing attention from Mumbai media, which described the modus operandi as “an unusual technique of power theft”, probably a description created by the officials of the DISCOM.
The method employed in this case raises questions about the effectiveness of DISCOM’s countermeasures. Is this truly an unprecedented method of power theft, or does it suggest a gap in the DISCOM’s capabilities to apprehend such perpetrators? Despite the overall reduction in losses observed in privatized distribution companies across India, the persistence of power theft remains a contentious issue.
While strides have been made, achieving single-digit levels of power theft continues to elude many utilities. This perpetuates the narrative of ‘privatized, but electricity remains vulnerable to theft,’ casting doubt on the adequacy of current strategies to address this persistent challenge.”
From media reports, it’s evident that the meter has been tampered with and unauthorized access has been gained. Just as an intruder entering a home targets the most valuable possessions like cash or gold, those tampering with the meter will pinpoint the most vulnerable component to manipulate readings. Within energy meters, numerous vulnerable points exist, ripe for tampering in power theft schemes. These may range from remote-controlled interference to physical hardware tampering.
The author identified numerous methods of power theft decades ago. Following detection, nearby utilities were promptly notified due to the interstate implications of such actions. Such types of power thefts are obsolete now.
One method employed to curb power theft involves the use of tamper-resistant meter boxes and tamper-evident security seals. However, despite implementing these measures, both watchdog mechanisms have been circumvented. The utility provider must investigate why these layers of theft prevention were easily compromised.
Additionally, there’s a pressing concern regarding the significant reduction in recorded consumption. If only 30% of the actual consumption is being registered, it should have raised red flags from the very first-meter reading. There might be a lapse in data analysis procedures that needs to be addressed. Furthermore, it’s puzzling why this discrepancy wasn’t detected by the regular meter reader. These issues demand thorough investigation and resolution. To combat power theft effectively, a comprehensive approach encompassing both technical and non-technical measures is essential. In brief, the installation of a smart meter alone cannot eliminate power theft. Addressing this issue requires a comprehensive approach, integrating technical solutions with non-technical strategies. (Tamperfinder)
Add comment