TNEB’s strategic plan to install tamper-proof remote energy meters ( Posted on : 05/Dec/2013 )

TNEB has decided to install smart and tamper-proof remote energy meters to reduce pilferage and the revenue losses incurred due to this. The TNEB authorities have estimated that this measure would avoid the loss of over Rs. 1000 Crores. Currently, TNEB is operating on debts of over Rs. 53,000 Crores and power shortage. As a possible countermeasure, efforts have been undertaken to reduce the pilferage of electric power and the losses incurred in revenue. LPRF (Low Power radio Frequency) based smart energy meters operating on the radio frequency waves are to be installed. These meters have the facility for the meter reader to take the readings at the consumers’ premises, buildings, and commercial establishments in a single session by using the remote unit covering the circle area of 60 metres radius. The smart energy meters will transmit the reading to the remote unit held by the meter reader. The readings registered on the remote unit can be downloaded later onto the computer.A trial has been conducted in Trichy at 150 locations for observation, analysis, and assessment. Sean PLC of UK has come forward to distribute these energy meters. A TNEB official informed:“There is an existing malpractice where the meter reader do not go and take the readings at each and every individual meter. On the other hand, they take bribes and record lesser consumption reducing the charges drastically. They then report the meters to be malfunctioning and get to change the correctly-operating meters. Thus these crimes could not be recorded, verified, or ascertained. Both the concerned consumer and the meter-reader manage to escape being caught and punished by legal action.Recently, disciplinary action has been taken on 3 employs and explanation has been asked from 2 offices in the districts of Chennai and Trivellore. Smart remote energy meters can prevent this crime and will be installed. Mr. Muralikrishnan, the acting president of the TNEB employees union remarked that authorities have found this happening in the districts of Kancheepuram and Sivaskasi. However, it has been suspected that the Engineers and the assistant Engineers were also involved in the crime. There is also an existing shortage of employees on this work. The Union would welcome installation of new meters if they actually reduce the work-burden of the employees.