The US Agency for International Development (USAID)'s Power Distribution Programme on Tuesday handed over Power Quality Monitoring (PQM) devices including power analyzers and GPS receivers to all nine power distribution companies (Discos) of Pakistan.
The USAID has already trained Discos staff on the utility of these PQM devices. These Power Analyzers will be used by Disco engineers to record pre and post Low-Tension (LT) capacitor installation measurements, assess the right size of LT capacitor to be installed at tube-well motor and determine the benefits. Chief Engineer Planning & Engineering along with PQM in-charge from every Disco attended the workshop and handing-over ceremony of PQM equipment.
"Power quality monitoring is an essential service utilities need to perform for better power equipment & network management as one hand these monitoring tools provide information about system disturbances and their possible causes while on the other hand it also help in detecting problem conditions throughout the system before they cause customer complaints, equipment malfunctions, and even equipment damage or failure. Therefore, power quality monitoring is not only an effective customer service strategy, but also a way to protect a utility's reputation for quality power and service." said Shafiqur Rehman, P&E Lead of Power Distribution Programme during the workshop. "The USAID Power Distribution Programme is assisting Discos in brining improvements to their planning and engineering. The programme has established planning and engineering computer centers for Discos while additional assistance such as establishment of Power Quality Monitoring (PQM) Cells will further improve the overall system of planning and engineering" Said Craig VanDevelde, Chief of Party of USAID Power Distribution Programme at the closing ceremony.
The four and half year USAID Power Distribution Programme was announced by Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in 2009 as one of the US Government's efforts to support Pakistan's energy system. Through the Power Distribution Programme, the US Government provides assistance to the Government of Pakistan in its efforts to reform the power sector so as to mitigate the current energy crisis. The programme is helping government-owned electric power distribution companies to improve their performance in terms of reduced losses, increased revenues and enhanced customer services.