MSEDCL’s new AI-based system has identified 27,964 cases of power theft worth Rs 66.28 crore between June and August 2026.
Using a new AI-based system, the Maharashtra power distribution company has identified 27,964 cases of power theft worth Rs 66.28 crore between June and August 2026.
The Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) has deployed over 190 flying squads across Maharashtra to respond to data received from the artificial intelligence system, an official statement said on Thursday. In three months, the Konkan region reported the highest number of cases with 11,083, followed by Nagpur with 5,949, Pune with 5,849 and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar with 5,083 cases.
AI module tracks unusual consumption patterns
MSEDCL has developed an artificial intelligence and machine learning module that analyzes electricity consumption data round the clock to identify unusual patterns that may indicate meter theft or tampering. This system monitors more than 50 technical parameters, including a customer’s past electricity consumption, sudden increases or decreases in consumption, and unusual meter behavior. Consumers whose consumption patterns are flagged as suspicious are classified as “high risk,” allowing law enforcement to focus their checks on specific locations. This marks a departure from traditional audits, in which field teams often had to conduct research before identifying potential theft cases.
MSEDCL has also digitized the entire enforcement process through its Theft Tracking and Monitoring System (TTMS) mobile app. The system uploads inspection details, photographs, digital punch namas, power outages and fine collections in real time.
MSEDCL has returned ₹29.85 crore.
Of the 27,964 cases of theft detected, MSEDCL has issued bills worth ₹66.28 crore in 24,508 confirmed cases. The utility has so far recovered ₹29.85 crore from 10,810 settled cases. Consumers who fail to pay the accrued amount and applicable complex fees within the stated period will face legal action. MSEDCL has already registered 289 criminal cases under Section 135 of the Electricity Act. Electricity theft can result in a fine and up to three years in prison.
The adoption of AI-assisted compliance efforts is part of MSEDCL’s larger efforts to reduce its combined technical and commercial losses below 10% over the next three years. Lokesh Chandra, additional chief secretary to the chief minister and chairman and managing director of MSEDCL, said the utility is focused on recovering outstanding debts and strengthening its campaign against power theft.
Published September 17, 2026
