Adani Electricity, a key player in Mumbai’s energy sector, has made significant strides in curbing power theft, achieving a commendable reduction in distribution losses. The company disclosed that it had lodged 974 First Information Reports (FIRs) for power theft across Mumbai’s suburbs in the fiscal year 2023-24. This marks an almost 25% increase compared to the 778 FIRs recorded in the previous fiscal year, 2022-23.
The intensification of anti-theft operations has yielded substantial recoveries. Over the past year, Adani Electricity’s vigilance team confiscated 60.5 tonnes of illegal wires and detected theft of 26.21 million units of electricity, valued at an estimated ₹46.04 crore. This enhanced vigilance has not only curbed theft but has also led to a reduction in technical and commercial distribution losses, which dropped from 5.93% in 2022-23 to 5.47% in 2023-24.
A company spokesperson highlighted that the reduction in distribution losses directly benefits consumers by mitigating the pressure on future tariffs. This efficiency gain is projected to ensure a lower tariff burden for approximately 3.15 million consumers in the upcoming year, a significant relief for Mumbai’s populace.
Over the past year, Adani Electricity’s vigilance team has uncovered several major power theft cases. In June 2023, a significant case was uncovered in Kurar village, Malad, where an electroplating business was caught illicitly using a three-phase direct supply, resulting in a power theft worth ₹1.33 crore. In July 2023, a plastic moulding business in Andheri was apprehended for illegal power use amounting to ₹1.09 crore. Similarly, in December 2023, a farmhouse on Manori Marve Road was found utilising an unauthorised power supply valued at ₹1.04 crore.
The spokesperson reiterated Adani Electricity’s commitment to eradicating power theft. “By combating these unlawful activities, we safeguard the interests of our customers,” he stated. This proactive stance not only secures revenue for the company but also ensures fair and equitable distribution of electricity, thereby enhancing overall system reliability and customer satisfaction.
Adani Electricity’s concerted efforts underscore its dedication to improving operational efficiency and maintaining equitable service delivery. The strategic focus on stringent vigilance and robust anti-theft measures exemplifies the company’s commitment to sustainable and customer-centric business practices.
