From Dawn · Khalid Hasnain · · 2m
Govt unveils hi-tech system to manage loadshedding
Pakistan launches smart grid to stop power theft and target loadshedding.
In brief
Pakistan launches smart grid to stop power theft and target loadshedding. Pakistan's government introduces an Asset Performance Management System to identify power thieves and reduce loadshedding by targeting high-theft areas. Originally reported by Dawn.
Government launches new power management system
The government will introduce the Asset Performance Management System (APMS) to control power theft and load management across Pakistan in phases.
APMS targets high-theft areas
The system will identify specific transformers in high-theft areas to enable targeted disconnections without penalizing paying consumers.
Loadshedding rules remain strict
Feeders with 30 percent or higher losses will continue loadshedding with no leniency for electricity thieves or chronic defaulters.
APMS pilot project starts in Lahore and Kasur
The APMS pilot project will launch in Lahore and Kasur soon, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif set to inaugurate it.
APMS works with smart meters
The system will sync with smart meters to monitor real-time electricity consumption and detect theft more accurately.
APMS narrows theft detection area
The area covered by the system will shrink from 2,000 to 3,000 consumers per feeder to 150 to 200 consumers per transformer.
APMS identifies theft through data
The system will record units received from the power distribution system and actual units used by consumers to detect theft.
APMS reports theft automatically
The system will automatically report theft, line losses, and tampering attempts to officials for quick response.
APMS replaces conventional meters
After installation, conventional electricity meters will be replaced by smart meters for real-time monitoring.
APMS reduces line losses
The system will help Discos reduce line losses and improve energy accounting through data-driven decisions.
APMS improves load management
The system will support equitable load management by identifying high-loss consumers and their locations.
APMS targets specific transformers
The system will be installed on transformers of various capacities currently placed on poles to monitor consumption.
APMS pilot project details
The APMS pilot project is being implemented by the Lahore Electric Supply Company (Lesco) with support from the Power Planning and Monitoring Company.
APMS reduces impact on consumers
The system will protect law-abiding consumers from being penalized for the actions of electricity thieves.
The big picture
Pakistan's government introduces an Asset Performance Management System to identify power thieves and reduce loadshedding by targeting high-theft areas.
