These are the losses that occur due to unidentified, misallocated or inaccurate energy flows.
They can be thought of as electricity that is consumed but not billed. It is important to differentiate this from electricity that is billed but where the bills are not paid. In the case of non-technical losses the end user is unknown or the amount of energy being consumed is uncertain.
Energy theft
Energy theft, also known as meter tampering, occurs when individuals interfere with their electricity or gas meters or remove them completely to reduce their energy bills. This hazardous practice puts people and communities at risk, leading to potential electrocutions, fires, and gas explosions that result in damage to property, injury, and, in some cases, even death.
Learn more about the dangers of energy theft and how to spot it at the Stay Energy Safe website here.
Report meter tampering or energy theft to save lives anonymously
If you suspect energy theft, you can report it 100% anonymously, 24/7, 365 days a year, through the Stay Energy Safe website online form here or call the free phone dedicated number — 0800 023 277.
Stay Energy Safe is an independent service operated by the charity Crimestoppers which guarantees you will remain 100% anonymous, they won’t ask who you are, they will just pass on what you know.
Conveyance
These are losses that arise when electricity is consumed but not correctly recorded. Situations arise where energy is legally consumed but is not properly recorded in the national electricity settlement system. This can occur due to inaccuracies in meter readings, unregistered meter points, errors in registration or faulty meters. These errors result in a discrepancy between actual and measured consumption, meaning energy is lost in the system.
Unmetered Supplies
Unmetered supplies (UMS) are commonly used for the communal areas in council owned buildings, street lamps, bus stops and advertising boards. Unmetered supply customers provide inventories of their connected electrical equipment and estimated consumption. Although we audit these inventories and request accurate updates they are not always provided and may change frequently. The difference between UMS estimates and actual consumption creates a non-technical loss.