SA power utility Eskom has become quite familiar with widespread vandalism and theft of its outdoor electricity meter kiosks and mini-substations over the last few years. High-impact areas like Delft, Khayelitsha and the North West continue to be among the hardest-hit, costing Eskom millions. For consumers, the incidents can result in prolonged power outages and the associated inconveniences.
A new innovation from Power Process Systems PPS aims to address the problem with its hydraulic metering kiosk. According to PPS, the kiosk is engineered specifically for high-risk municipal environments. Metering kiosks are traditionally manufactured from a range of materials, including polypropylene, fibreglass, polyethylene, mild steel and stainless steel.
However, despite years of design evolution and the introduction of electronic keys, vandal-resistant locks and safe-style kiosk designs, crafty criminals and vandals still find ways to appropriate copper busbars and circuit breakers. Additionally, illegal meter bridging continues, and steel doors are commonly removed for scrap value.
