Sabir Hussain
The Islamabad Electric Supply Company (IESCO) is gearing up to usher in a new era of efficiency and customer convenience with the imminent implementation of Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) in Rawalpindi. This transformative initiative, funded by the Asian Development Bank, is poised to reshape the electricity distribution landscape and enhance consumer experiences across the region. The first phase of the project is scheduled to commence in December. The AMI system promises a host of advantages that are set to redefine the way electricity consumption is monitored, billed, and managed for consumers in Rawalpindi. With automatic meter reading, the days of manual meter reading and related complexities are expected to be consigned to the past. The implementation of AMI will lead to the automation of meter reading processes, eliminating the need for meter readers and streamlining operations for both the electric supply company and consumers.
One of the standout features of the AMI system is its real-time data dissemination to consumers. Through a dedicated mobile app, consumers will gain access to updates regarding their electricity usage on an hourly basis. Additionally, a simplified payment mechanism will allow consumers to settle their bills conveniently through a single provided link on the app. To tackle issues such as meter tampering, the AMI system will be equipped with tamper detection mechanisms. Any attempt at meter tampering will trigger an automatic disconnection of electricity supply to the meter in question, simultaneously generating an alert at the IESCO headquarter. This proactive approach not only ensures accurate billing but also safeguards the integrity of the distribution system. Delinquent bill payment will also face a paradigm shift with the AMI system. Instead of manual intervention, connections will be automatically disconnected from the main control center for those consumers who fail to pay their bills on time. This automated process not only reduces administrative burdens but also streamlines the management of overdue accounts.
In a groundbreaking move, load shedding will be directly managed at the meter level. The central operation center at IESCO headquarter will have the capability to control and minimize electricity consumption during load shedding hours by sending commands to individual meters. This will empower consumers to utilize only essential appliances such as lighting and fans during load shedding, contributing to better load management. Furthermore, the AMI system will prevent consumers from exceeding their sanctioned load limits. In cases where a consumer attempts to exceed their sanctioned load, the meter’s supply will be automatically disconnected, triggering an alert at the control center. This feature not only promotes responsible electricity usage but also contributes to the stability of the distribution network.
The AMI system will offer comprehensive insights into the distribution system’s performance. The system will be able to track the flow of units from the feeder to the transformer and down to individual meters. This granular data will aid in the identification of distribution inefficiencies and pave the way for data-driven optimizations. The impending implementation of AMI in Rawalpindi underlines IESCO’s commitment to innovation, efficiency, and customer-centricity. With the Asian Development Bank’s support, this venture is poised to be a game-changer, setting new standards for all electricity distribution companies nationwide.
