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For 5 months of 2014 IDGC of Centre - Yarenergo division has found 344 cases of electricity theft. In this regard the non-metered energy amounted to 5 million kW/h.
IDGC of Centre - Yarenergo division works consistently to identify and prevent facts of non-metered electricity consumption. The main tool to combat theft is raids, during which staff of Distribution Zones check operation of meters and inspect overhead lines for illegal connections. If the fact of theft s identified, then an act of non-contracted or non-metered consumption is drawn up. For 5 months on the acts of non-contracted consumption 5.7 million rubles were collected, which corresponds to 1.4 million kW/h. Payment on them is made by the consumer, who committed theft of electricity, directly to the branch. In cases where payment is not made, offenders awaiting trial. Further acts for non-metered consumption of 3.1 million kW/h were drawn up. Payment on them is made to a retail company under a contract for the transmission of electric energy.
The main types of violations for which power engineers detect thefts include various methods of influencing a metering device, breaking the seal of Yarenergo off electricity meters, replacing metering devices without notifying employees of the branch, concealing the fact of failure of a metering device, connection of power installations bypassing the meter and connection to electric grids without a contract with the retail company.
In addition to violations of the law the electricity theft carries two serious problems. Firstly, grid connection, bypassing the grid organization, made an "artisanal" way may result in the malfunction of grid equipment and electric shock. Secondly, the additional non-metered load on the grid leads to power surges and damage to appliances and less reliable power supply.
Conscientious consumers can help the power company in addressing these challenges, reporting facts of possible theft to the grid organization on the around the clock straight line phone at 8800 50 50 115. Please, note that for 5 months in 2014 Yarenergo has received 15 reports on electricity theft from residents.