Enel promotes program to combat energy theft and draws refrigerators in Macaé

The Energia Legal program aims to combat irregular connections, popularly known as “gatos”, and alert the population about the risks and losses caused by this practice. According to Enel, since the launch of the project in November 2019, more than 33,500 cases of theft and energy fraud have been identified in 98 editions carried out. According to the distributor, in 2026, around 89% of registered irregularities occurred in homes and 11% in commercial establishments. The company highlights that illegal connections compromise the quality of energy supply, increase the number of interruptions and can put the safety of the population at risk. The concessionaire also informs that energy theft is a crime, subject to a penalty of one to eight years in prison, in addition to charging the amounts corresponding to irregular consumption. The practice can also cause serious accidents, including fatal ones, due to improper handling of electrical installations. During the action period, customers will be able to report energy theft through the Enel Rio app or by calling 0800 280 0120, without the need for identification. Refrigerator exchange The refrigerator exchange program is part of Enel's Energy Efficiency Program, developed with resources regulated by the National Electric Energy Agency (Aneel). The distributed equipment has the Procel energy efficiency seal and can consume up to 70% less energy compared to older models. According to the company, replacing an old refrigerator can reduce average monthly consumption from approximately 90 kWh to around 24 kWh. To participate in the draw, the energy account holder must present copies of their ID, CPF and an updated and paid electricity bill. The draw will be held on Wednesday (22), at 4pm, at Praça Nagib Mussi, in Parque Aeroporto. If the winner is not present, the dealership will make a call to the telephone number provided. If there is no service, the participant will lose the right to the benefit. Delivery and replacement of refrigerators will take place on Thursday (23), from 9am to 1pm, at the same location. Maintenance of the electrical network Enel informed that it will also continue with preventive maintenance actions in Macaé. This week, more than 700 tree prunings are planned, more than 110 corrective inspections on the network, more than 180 washings of electrical structures and nine customer service projects. The interventions are part of the special preventive action plan developed by the company in its concession area and will feature exclusive teams and advance planning in partnership with the city hall. Educational services and activities Until Thursday (23), residents will also have access to Enel's mobile service, which offers services such as changing ownership, installments, debt negotiation, reconnections and requests for new connections. The program also includes the Van Experience, equipped with augmented reality resources, and the Nave Enel, installed in an adapted bus with interactive rooms, educational games, virtual reality and activities aimed at the conscious use of electrical energy. Customers will also be able to participate in lectures on energy efficiency and exchange up to five incandescent or compact fluorescent lamps for LED models, which are more economical and long-lasting. In addition, teams from the distributor will be available to guide consumers on registering for the Electricity Social Tariff, a Federal Government benefit aimed at low-income families registered with CadÚnico or beneficiaries of the Continuous Payment Benefit (BPC). Discounts can reach 100% for consumption of up to 80 kWh per month.