FIRM UNVEILS NEW METER TO FIGHT POWER THEFT

Kenpetrus Energy Resources Limited has developed a new metering technology designed to help electricity distribution companies detect tampering and reduce power theft in Nigeria.

The technology, known as “Ultrasonic Transparent Metering,” uses a transparent housing that allows the internal components of the meter to remain visible during inspections and maintenance.

The company’s Head of Operations, Henry Nwokike, said the design could make physical interference, modification and other forms of meter tampering easier to identify. He spoke during an engagement with electricity consumers in Awka.

Nwokike said electricity theft remained a major challenge for the power sector, affecting revenue collection and the financial sustainability of distribution companies. He, however, noted that metering technology alone would not eliminate the problem.

According to him, effective monitoring, maintenance, enforcement and consumer awareness would also be required to tackle illegal connections and other forms of energy theft.

The company’s Chief Executive Officer, Antonio Ndubuizu, said accurate measurement of electricity consumption would help improve billing transparency and enable DisCos to identify irregular consumption.

He added that the technology is being considered for deployment under the Meter Asset Provider framework and other approved programmes.

Kenpetrus said the new meter forms part of broader efforts to improve metering coverage, strengthen revenue protection and reduce commercial losses in Nigeria’s electricity market.