JPS sheds light on tamper proof lines
Published:Wednesday | December 31, 2008 | 12:08 PM
The Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS) is defending its decision to install tamper proof power lines, which could affect the electricity supply to legitimate customers.
Under the proposed system, lawful JPS customers could experience a power outage if someone tries to steal electricity.
Head of Corporate Communications at the JPS, Winsome Callum says the move is necessary to reduce electricity theft and to cut company and customer costs.
According to Ms. Callum the JPS will be fine-tuning exactly how the process will be rolled out in the months ahead.
The Office of Utilities Regulation is yet to approve those measures.
Under the proposed \'new\' system metres will be mounted on light poles instead of customers’ houses. This will allow JPS and customers to electronically monitor electricity usage.
The company will also be able to use the device to disconnect and reconnect power without having to go to the premises.
The initiative will cost about US$9 million or J$720 million.