PLN to launch 'zero interruption' next year

JAKARTA (JP): The Jakarta and Tangerang distribution branch of the state-owned electricity company, PT PLN, is to apply a program called "zero interruption" to reduce electricity blackouts from January next year, an official said yesterday.

Branch head Tunggono said the program, which is scheduled to be completed in 1998, would be phased in gradually.

"So, there won't be any electricity blackouts because of installation workings," Tunggono said.

He said the company often cuts off the power to areas when repairing the seven main electrical relay stations.

"We will make sure the regular repairs to the relay stations will not affect electricity supply," he said.

Under the program repairs can be carried out alternately, meaning that while some of the main relay stations were being repaired, others would remain in operation.

Tunggono also said the company would install electronic meters to get accurate data on the electricity power used by subscribers.

"With the devices, we hope we can reduce electricity current losses," Tunggono said.

The devices, that cost Rp 2 million (US$858) each, would be used initially for the 9,000 customers with an average monthly bill of Rp 500 million, he said. (jun)