GPL urges customers to notify company before increasing electricity usage

The Guyana Power and Light Inc (GPL) is urging residential, commercial, and industrial customers to notify the company before increasing their electricity load, warning that unreported increases are contributing to voltage fluctuations, damaged meters, and burnt appliances across several communities. According to GPL, customers are required under Sections 8.1 and 4.2 of the Standard Terms and Conditions (STC) for Electric Services to give prior written notice of any change in service requirements, including increases in expected energy consumption. This allows the utility company to determine whether the existing infrastructure can safely support the additional load. GPL explained that where increased demand cannot be accommodated immediately, the company will advise customers of the timeframe required to facilitate the change, in accordance with Section 4.2 of the STC. The reminder follows an increase in reports of transformer overloads and low-voltage issues, which GPL has linked to unreported changes in electricity consumption. These changes often occur when customers install air-conditioning units, add heavy-duty appliances, expand business operations, or convert residential properties into apartment buildings or commercial spaces. While such changes may appear minor at the individual level, GPL noted that, over time, they can place significant strain on the distribution network. This can result in frequent outages, reduced service quality, and damage to electrical equipment within affected communities. GPL is therefore encouraging customers to contact their nearest commercial office or service centre to report any planned increase in electricity load or upcoming changes that could affect usage. The company said this process should be done in collaboration with the Government Electrical Inspectorate (GEI) under the Ministry of Public Works. By notifying GPL in advance, the utility can assess the potential impact on the network and take the necessary steps to upgrade or reinforce infrastructure where required, ensuring the safe and reliable delivery of electricity. GPL stressed that customer cooperation is essential to maintaining service reliability and preventing avoidable disruptions, adding that advance reporting benefits both the company and consumers by reducing the risk of equipment damage and prolonged outages.