Electricity distribution

Tender description

Electricity theft from the electricity distribution network has always been a problem. Theft is committed by abstracting (diverting) electricity prior to any metering supply point, an activity which is highly dangerous and illegal. In addition, the abstracted electricity is not accounted for and therefore unpaid for. The network operators have previously used anti-tampering warning devices (see figure 1) between the cut-out and the meter, in order to prevent re-wiring attempts to bypass the meter; this has had limited success in preventing potential offenders from tampering with the supply, resulting in little protection for the DNOs from theft. This call for innovation is looking for alternative solutions that will fully prevent tampering with the cut-out or its connected cables. The location of the device should ideally be below the cut-out and it should also protect the tails going into the bottom of the cut-out. The desired output from the call would be a retrofit anti-tampering solution, which should fully secure the electrical equipment, prevent meter tampering and guarantee the safety of the people involved in the offence. The proposed solution can be either: — a market-ready product, — an early-stage technology. The proposed solution must comply with the following requirements: — should be Electricity Safety, Quality and Continuity Regulations (ESQCR) compliant, — should be a retrofit solution, capable of being added in existing installations without modification, — should be fireproof, — should be secure (prevent theft tampering with the cut-out), — should be compact and mindful of small space in the meter cabinet, — should be cost-effective, — should not affect the normal operation of domestic supply from and to the meter. It is envisaged that appropriate solutions could be supported by funding either for design, development or trial with network partners. The solution should ideally be Market Ready and ready to trial in a live environment, but proposals requiring support to develop an appropriate solution will be considered. — If the expression of interest published here determines the market conditions are good for fullfilling this requirement — then suppliers having responded to the expression of interest will be given an opportunity to participate in an ITT — invitation to tender at an appropriate time.