Electricity theft involves using electricity while bypassing, either totally or partially, the power metering system. It also includes tampering with a power meter to change its reading. Electricity theft is a crime in Canada.
Meter tampering
Tampering with a meter to pay a reduced amount for power is more common than bypassing the meter altogether. People also steal electricity for illegal purposes that require large amounts of electricity, such as marijuana grow-ops. By bypassing the meter to power the grow-op, there is no suspicious increase in power consumption for that particular residence.
Problems associated with electricity theft
- Electricity usage that is not being recorded can overload circuits and cause system failures.
- Power usage without regulation negates the effect other customers are having by practicing electricity conservation.
- Bypassing the meter is usually done with inadequate and unsafe materials, creating a fire hazard.
- Millions of dollars a year are lost in unpaid power usage.
SaskPower and law enforcement
We work with law enforcement by reporting suspicious power consumption and meter tampering to the appropriate authorities.
If you suspect that a dwelling is being used for growing marijuana, contact local police. If you wish to remain anonymous, contact Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or leave a confidential online tip.
