GNBS INCREASES CAPACITY TO VERIFY ELECTRICITY METERS

The Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) has increased its capacity to verify
electricity meters submitted by the Guyana Power & Light (GPL) Inc. in a more efficient
manner. This is made possible with the acquisition of a modern Electricity test bench
capable of verifying five (5) meters simultaneously.

The new piece of equipment was recently acquired from ZERA India –a subsidiary of
German Zähler-Eich-und-Reparatur-Anstalt (Meter Calibration and Repair Institute).
The company on Tuesday (July 12, 2022) facilitated a practical training with Inspectors
of the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) along with representatives from
GPL Inc. on the use of the equipment.

The practical training was preceded by a four-day theoretical session hosted during the
period July 5- 8, 2022 by CENAMEP AIP – the National Metrology Center of Panama.
The session titled ‘Introduction to the metrological verification of electricity
meters’ was virtually facilitated by the agency’s representative Mr. Julio Gonzalez.
Topics covered included the importance of energy measurement, electric energy meters
and metrological verification service for meters.

Senior Inspector in the GNBS’ Legal Metrology Department Mr. Keemo Fyffe noted that
the training aimed at developing the competence of the Inspectors to accurately verify
electricity meters using the new equipment. Mr. Fyffe added that the GNBS appreciates
the donation of the equipment and training provided which will boost the delivery of its
Legal Metrology measurement services.

In accordance with the Weights and Measures Act 1981, the GNBS is responsible for the
verification of all weighing and measuring instruments used in trade and devices used
within the health, transportation, manufacturing, agriculture and other sectors in
Guyana, to ensure equity in trade, consumer protection and safety.
Electricity meters, which are installed on residential and commercial buildings to
determine electricity use, are submitted to the Bureau to be verified upon importation.
The GNBS has so far verified 11,768 meters for the year.