LAHORE: The Power Division and ex-WAPDA Distribution Companies (DISCOs) are at odds over the implementation of the Rs73 billion “Asset Performance Monitoring System” (APMS) project, with differing opinions on its effectiveness.
In a directive, the Power Division instructed DISCOs to submit the PC-1 of the APMS project, aimed at 100KVA general duty distribution transformers, for board approval by August 9. According to the Power Division, the project aims to enhance electricity supply, operational efficiencies, and modernize DISCO operations. The distribution system lost 19.169 Tera Watt-Hour (TWh), or 16.45% of electricity, in FY22-23, contributing to the power sector’s circular debt and increasing costs for consumers.
The plan involves 10 DISCOs installing APMS on 87,096 100 KV transformers and 47,317 200 KV transformers, including 23,465 transformers of MEPCO, 25,675 of LESCO, 15,703 of FESCO, 6,123 of IESCO, 6,622 of HESCO, 4,815 of SEPCO, and 21,315 of PESCO. Breakers will be installed on 135,413 transformers, using GCM technology to control operations and disconnect power supply in case of theft or overloading. The project is estimated to cost Rs73 billion, including markup, with loans from the Asian Development Bank, World Bank, or other international institutions suggested for funding.
However, several DISCO officials have expressed skepticism, arguing that the plan is ineffective and alleging that the PPMC consultant developed it in collusion with local manufacturers, thus burdening the national exchequer. They contend that the interest on loans for the project will ultimately be passed on to consumers. Despite initial refusals, officials were reportedly coerced into approving the plan.
Story by Aamir Naveed
