City Power has warned Johannesburg homeowners to upgrade their meters by November 24 to load prepaid units.
As the deadline for upgrading the Token Identifier (TID) approaches, a number of questions arise.
The utility has now attempted to clarify this matter.
The major question residents have is how they may check or verify whether their prepaid meters have been converted from KRN 1 to KRN 2.
“There’s only a handful of customers who are outstanding and we urge them to use the Do-It-Yourself method which allows customers to re-code their meters by simply purchasing electricity units,” City Power spokesperson Isaac Mangena said.
“If a customer’s meter has not yet been converted when they purchase electricity units, they will receive three sets of 20-digit codes, with the last one being the unit token code. If all three sets of tokens are accepted, the meter has been successfully upgraded. The meter will display a smiley face to confirm the upgrade.”
The utility stated that it has successfully converted 99% of all vending prepaid meters in Johannesburg’s Service Delivery Centres (SDCs) supply zones.
For residents whose meters have not yet been changed or are confused about the status of their prepaid meters, the utility has supplied some methods to determine if yours conform.
- Receipt Verification: After purchasing electricity units, check your receipt. If your prepaid meter has been converted, it will indicate “KRN 2” underneath the token units.
- Contact City Power’s Call Centre: The toll free number is 0800 202 925.
- Visit the utility’s Customer Service Centres: Staff will assist you in verifying your meter status.
Why is this so important?
Mangena stated that the conversion from KRN1 to KRN2 is critical for a variety of reasons, including ensuring that consumers transition from old traditional meters to smart or semi-smart meters.
“These upgrades, which are similar to software upgrades that cellphones use, offer advanced features. The KRN 2 meters come equipped with features that facilitate better monitoring and management of electricity usage,” he added.
Mangena stated that if a client attempts to tamper with the meter, City Power will receive a signal and take quick action against the culprit.
