Muscat Electricity Distribution Company ( MEDC ) will invest nearly RO166mn on its networks over the next three years to meet the increasing demand for power in the capital region, particularly from the domestic sector. "The focus will be on upgrading and expanding the network to meet the demand for power from 2012 to 2014. This year, we are undertaking projects worth RO27mn. We are also in talks to supply power to the new Muscat airport," CEO Abdullah bin Said al Badri told Muscat Daily.
As more housing units come up and with the development of satellite towns such as Amerat and Mabella, 15,035 new customers were added in 2011, taking the company's total customer base to 221,548. Total regulated units of power sold grew nearly ten per cent to 6,931GWh.
Domestic demand increased 6.1%, while demand from the commercial segment grew 12%
Domestic demand increased 6.1 per cent, while demand from the commercial segment grew 12 per cent. Demand from the industrial sector rose 14 per cent and agricultural demand jumped ten per cent, said another senior official of the company.
On power cable-theft, which has been affecting the company badly, Badri said, "A new campaign, involving all affected parties and law-enforcing agencies, is in the pipeline. The tendering process has already been initiated."
This year, a centralised data monitoring system (SCADA) is being implemented. It will act as a main control centre and a back-up control centre.
The system will have remote telemetry automation and telecommunication systems in many electrical substations. The company is undertaking this technical upgradation in various phases.
Muscat Daily
9 September
