Energy Theft Detection

Apr 16, 2024

The INCON® Distribution Transformer Monitor (DTM) provides continuous, meter-grade precision performance monitoring of high-value, mission critical, low voltage pad mount and conventional pole mount transformers. With its ability to monitor transformer voltage sag and swell with automated threshold alarms, the DTM provides utilities with the ability to detect and address illicit activity effectively.

UNAUTHORIZED ENERGY CONSUMPTION

Energy theft, often referred to as “electricity diversion” or “meter tampering,” is the unauthorized consumption of electricity made by illegal connections or the bypassing of meters. This illicit practice is often hard to identify and can lead to substantial revenue losses, compromised grid integrity, and potential safety hazards.

VOLTAGE SAG & SWELL MONITORING

An automated alarm triggered by voltage sag and swell events on a distribution transformer can be a valuable tool in identifying power theft. Voltage sag and swell anomalies are abnormal fluctuations in voltage levels that can occur due to various factors, including power theft. Here’s how such alarms provided by the DTM can help in the detection of energy theft:

ABNORMAL LOAD CHARACTERISTICS

Unauthorized connections can introduce irregularities in load characteristics. Voltage sag and swell events triggered by sudden or unusual load changes can be indicative of unauthorized tapping into the system.

TAMPER DETECTION

Unauthorized connections or tampering with transformers can cause disruptions in voltage levels. An alarm for voltage sag or swell events can act as a tamper detection mechanism, signaling potential unauthorized access to the distribution transformer.

CORRELATION WITH CONSUMPTION PATTERNS

Voltage sag and swell alarms can be correlated with consumption patterns of the connected customers. Significant deviations from the norm during non-peak hours or unusual patterns inconsistent with legitimate consumer behavior may suggest power theft.

GEOGRAPHICAL ANOMALIES

Voltage events triggered by power theft may exhibit geographical anomalies. If voltage sags or swells are consistently observed in specific locations, it could signal areas prone to power theft activities.

Real-time alerts for voltage sag and swell events allow utilities to respond promptly. Rapid intervention in response to alarms can prevent further losses, discourage theft attempts, and facilitate the identification of the specific location or parties involved.

The INCON™ DTM is a cutting-edge monitoring system that leverages advanced technologies, including wireless sensors and cloud-based analytics, to provide real-time monitoring and analysis of transformer performance. It allows utilities to detect potential issues before they escalate into major problems, improving the reliability of their electrical grids and reducing maintenance costs.

With the ability to monitor and trend transformer output voltage, loading (current) by phase, temperature, and Power Factor for an entire network of transformers, utilities are armed with powerful information regarding power distribution and equipment maintenance.

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