Tata Power-DDL deploys OCR tech to optimise meter readings in India
Tata Power Delhi Distribution Ltd (Tata Power-DDL) has introduced a new AI-based forensic meter reading solution, which uses optical character recognition (OCR), for North Delhi fieldworkers to reduce non-technical losses.
The solution is the result of a collaboration between the Indian power utility and data capture and artificial intelligence (AI) developer Anyline. The technology leverages optical character recognition (OCR) for meter reading and has been rolled out to field workers across North Delhi after development and testing.
Combining mobile data capture and AI-powered anti-spoofing capabilities, the scanning solution is integrated into the mobile devices of field workers to gather meter readings.
By scanning utility meters with their mobile device cameras, field workers can quickly capture meter readings, which are then verified by Tata Power-DDL to detect whether the data and images submitted are genuine and accurate.
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Tata Power-DDL’s operations span an area of 510km2, including over 1.9 million meters, which are recorded monthly by field workers. With the introduction of this new solution, the company is aiming to improve the data quality of readings, while reducing the cycle time of meter billing for customers.
Commenting on the partnership, Ganesh Srinivasan, CEO, Tata Power-DDL stated: “We are committed to enhancing customer experience through integration and adoption of latest technologies. Our partnership with Anyline is a step in the same direction. The introduction of this solution will help us in delivering value proposition to our customers while ensuring that they are billed accurately for the energy they consume.”
The solution is hoped to help overcome human discrepancies leading to faulty readings and accordingly, ensure accuracy in meter reading and billing.
The issue of potentially inaccurate meter readings is prevalent not only in India, but across Europe too. Earlier this year a Dutch study found that metering inaccuracies typically result from the meter’s design and the increasing use of modern energy-efficient devices.
This results in increasing energy bills from smart meters that are intended to accurately portray consumption and decrease costs.
