In 2015, the power consumption metering and control departments of Penzaenergo, a branch of IDGC of Volga, PJSC (a member of Rosseti Group) detected 3,296 cases of unauthorized power consumption totaling 11,947.398 thousand kWh. Out of the total number, 629 actions (5,612.284 thousand kWh) were raised against enterprises and 2,667 actions (6,335.114 thousand kWh) — against individuals. Damages caused by illegal electricity usage are estimated at 18.617 million rubles (this amount includes just the cost of electricity transmission services). By the moment, this damage has been compensated in full. Most electrical theft crimes still occur through meter tampering, or bypassing meters to avoid recording electricity usage, and tapping, or hooking up a power line.

Penzaenergo specialists notify that power theft carries deadly risks, and many thieves pay for the power they steal with their lives. Electricity theft is not just dangerous for those who steal, but for the community in general. Besides, an illegal connection, that is the drawing or tapping of power from the electrical mains, can easily cause short circuits that often cause fires, or voltage drops, or electrical failure or malfunction of household appliances. Finally, illegal connections cause overloads in power grids and then its breakdown.

 Once again, power sector specialists remind that unauthorized electricity consumption is a punishable offense, and an offender can be prosecuted under applicable criminal law. If you have witnessed or have information about illegal connections, unauthorized power consumption, please contact your local office of Penzaenergo or call the HOTLINE 8-800-700-18-12.