Guyana Power and Light Inc (GPL), in collaboration with the Public Utilities and Aviation Ministry, has intensified efforts to tackle electricity theft, with more than 220 illegal connections removed during a three-day exercise across several communities.
The exercise, conducted by GPL’s Loss Reduction Department, targeted areas including Eccles, Diamond Phase Three, Little Diamond and sections of Sophia. The illegal connections removed represented approximately one megawatt (MW) of electricity.
GPL said the unauthorised connections place additional pressure on transformers, feeders and other critical components of the electricity network, contributing to system overloads, equipment failures and power disruptions.
The company also warned that illegal connections pose serious safety risks to residents, GPL employees and emergency responders, including the risk of electrocution and electrical fires.
In separate exercises conducted in Sophia and Little Diamond, GPL teams identified and removed illegal connections from the network.
GPL said electricity theft is a criminal offence and persons found engaging in the practice will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
The company is urging persons with unauthorised connections to visit GPL to regularise their electricity service.
Members of the public are also encouraged to report suspected electricity theft by calling 226-2600, toll-free on 0475, or via WhatsApp at 699-4882.
The ministry and GPL said loss-reduction exercises will continue in communities across the country as part of efforts to improve the efficiency, reliability and safety of the electricity system.
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