JPS uses 'intelligence' to fight theft

The Jamaica Public Service Company (JPSCo) has enlisted new technology to assist in its fight against electricity theft.

While admitting that the new "intelligence-driven technological device", is still in the early stages of testing, the company is optimistic that the device could lead to substantial reduction in electricity theft across the island.

According to corporate communications officer at JPSCo, Audrey Williams, the system which has worked in the fight against electricity theft overseas, was tested in a section of the island.

"The company can disclose that it has installed an intelligent solution on sections of its network in a community in central Jamaica where it has observed a marked reduction in theft from 52 per cent to less than eight per cent," said Williams.

While not willing to disclose much information regarding the cost of installing the device in its networks across the island, Williams told The Gleaner that the company was very optimistic that the use of the device would be cost effective.

OPTIMISTIC

"Right now, we want to give it more time and see how it will hold up, but based on the initial assessments, we are optimistic about the cost effectiveness of the device."

The company is also aggressively targeting businesses that have been found to be involved in the theft of electricity. In a release, JPSCo stated that it had conducted a number of audits on meters in the Constant Spring Road, Liguanea and Papine areas, which have resulted in the arrest of eight business persons for electricity theft. Alleged electricity thieves in central Jamaica have not been spared from the company's efforts as five persons were brought before the courts in Spanish Town on June 24 to answer charges of illegally abstracting electricity. Three of these persons pleaded guilty to the charge.

Meanwhile, in Montego Bay, St James, alleged electricity thieves have also been brought before the courts and faced fines in the thousands of dollars.

Williams is encouraging persons to continue to report electricity theft.

"Persons wishing to report theft including streetlight breaches, may send a text message to 292-7483 (CYA RITE), or send an email to: stoptheft@jpsco.com".