PNG Power has established a contractual agreement with two Korean Companies Nuriflex and fluent Grid and is now ready to roll out its Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) and Smart Metering (SM) Phase 1 across the Nation.
Following with the contractor Nuriflex presenting a “Performance Security” to PNG Power representatives with the legal document declaring the contractor to fulfil its obligations with PNG Power for the project’s duration.
This was witnessed by Acting Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Nehemiah Naris, Acting Chief Commercial Officer, Mr. Kingtston Albert and the Project Team at the PNG Power Head Office Monday June 24th, 2024.
The National Government funded the AMI and SM Project Phase 1 through Kumul Consolidated Holdings under the K211million Grid Stabilization and Rehabilitation Program, underlining the total Project cost as US$6 million (21 million).
PNG Power acknowledges and appreciates the assurance of its assets and systems are given the much-needed upgrade and facelift, especially the undivided support from Prime Minister James Marape and State-Owned-Enterprise Minister William Duma.
The AMI Smart Metering Project will improve the meter management system, revenue billing collections, and energy loss monitoring and management, playing a significant step towards addressing electricity theft and system losses for the company.
This is expected to significantly enhance the affordability, accessibility, reliability, and efficiency of electricity services throughout the country, directly benefiting our customers and the public.
In the Project first phase, PNG Power expects to start installation work in February 2025, targeting around 10,000 industrial and commercial customers who collectively contribute over 81% of the current total energy consumption and sales.
This following a lead time for site survey, design approval, manufacturing, and mobilization.
PNG Power Acting CEO, Mr. Naris stated, “The implementation of this project will involve the application of Advanced AMI solutions, integrating multiple technologies to better manage our assets, revenue, energy losses, and greater visibility on energy consumption by individual customers.”
The second phase of the project will target all domestic prepaid customers with over 200,000 smart Meters nationwide as PNG Power transitions towards a smart grid.