Reducing Losses at a Power Utility

Abstract

This design project consists of a power utility and the complexity of handling losses that represent 12.4% of energy loss. The objective of this project was developed using the DMAIC methodology for a better understanding of the current structure of the process of handling and measuring losses in the utility. These are seen as technical and non-technical losses. In the US, a power utility has a combined 4.5% of losses, while this power utility has 7.9% of technical losses and a 4.5% of non-technical losses, representing a high priority for a loss reduction program. The program will help the utility develop long-term initiatives for handling and measuring losses with data-driven projects, improve employee skills with better training, and provide clarity about loss reduction goals to its workforce. The structure needed for completion will be based on standardizing the utility loss calculation methodology with a clear accountability organizational system in place. Key Terms⎯ metering, non-technical losses, technical losses, power utility