Title

by
1 min read
p r

Efforts Underway to Update Prepaid Electricity Meters in Cape Town

The City of Cape Town is making significant progress in its prepaid electricity meter upgrade program. The initiative aims to update all prepaid metering software in South Africa before the current software expires in 2024. Failure to update the meters would result in customers being unable to recharge their meters with new tokens and, consequently, losing power supply.

Schedule

The update initiative is currently covering Grassy Park, Ottery, Pelican Park, and Philippi areas from September 1 to October 31, 2023. The remaining 10 areas will be serviced in the coming months.

Progress

To date, 64 areas in the metro have been covered, and around 502,000 (70%) of prepaid meters have been updated as planned.

Updating Process

Residents are encouraged to update their meters themselves by following three easy steps. However, the elderly and those with disabilities can seek assistance from family members or contact the City’s Call Centre at 0860 103 089 for help.

Upon purchasing electricity, customers will receive two 20-digit update codes along with their usual prepaid token. Update codes will be provided according to the area schedule. Customers not yet eligible for an update will receive the codes only when their area is due to be serviced.

To update their prepaid meters, customers must:
1. Enter the first 20-digit update code and wait for acceptance.
2. Enter the second 20-digit update code and wait for acceptance.
3. Enter the usual 20-digit token to recharge units as normal.

City teams are on standby to offer assistance if required, and they carry identification and work order numbers for verification purposes. Residents can also call the City’s call center to verify the teams’ credentials.

Changes After Update

After the update, old, unused tokens will not work, and residents must enter them before completing the update. The work schedule for update tokens issuance per area can be found on the City’s website.

Future Plans

The City plans to revisit areas not included in the schedule and mop up operations for incomplete meters in late 2023 and early 2024. New meters installed will eventually be updated, and older stock, even if newly installed, will need to be updated as well.

The prepaid electricity meter software update will not affect a user’s electricity usage or the calibration of their meter. If a resident suspects their meter may be faulty, they are encouraged to contact the City’s Call Centre. It is essential to update the prepaid electricity meter software as it is set to expire in 2024 for all meters in South Africa.

A Russian-Spanish journalist and Cape Town native, channels his lifelong passion for South Africa into captivating stories for his local blog. With a diverse background and 50 years of rich experiences, Serjio's unique voice resonates with readers seeking to explore Cape Town's vibrant culture. His love for the city shines through in every piece, making Serjio the go-to source for the latest in South African adventures.

View all

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.

s o
Previous Story

South African High Court Declares Department of Correctional Services’ Decisions Unconstitutional

h o
Next Story

The Presidential Employment Programme: Empowering Homeless Citizens and Regenerating the CBD

Latest from Blog

firefighters community outreach

Spreading Holiday Cheer: Firefighters Bring Joy to Children

In December 2024, firefighters brightened the holidays for children in care facilities by delivering wrapped gifts with big smiles. Partnering with Pick n Pay, they spread joy and gratitude after receiving support during a tough summer of wildfires. Each visit was a heartwarming reminder of kindness, as firefighters became symbols of generosity, teaching kids about empathy and community spirit. This joyful initiative shows how simple acts of giving can light up lives and strengthen bonds in the community.

justice gender-based violence

A Persistent Nightmare in Embalenhle: Justice Served

In Embalenhle, South Africa, a dark nightmare unfolded as Themba Prince Shongwe committed terrible crimes, including rapes and murders, from 2016 to 2018. The community lived in fear as he targeted innocent girls, causing heartbreak and loss. Finally, justice was served when he was found guilty and sentenced to nine life terms in prison, bringing relief to the grieving families and a sense of safety back to the community. This victory shines a light on the importance of standing against violence and working together to protect the vulnerable.

street lighting community safety

Illuminating Cape Town: Lighting Up Safety and Community

Cape Town’s streetlight program shines brightly as it manages over 245,000 lights, making the city safer and more inviting, especially during the festive season. The community plays a vital role by reporting issues and staying alert, working together to protect these lights from theft and vandalism. With a focus on sustainability, the city is switching to energyefficient LEDs, reducing its environmental impact while keeping streets welllit. This initiative not only lights up the city but also brings people together, creating a warm and safe atmosphere that showcases Cape Town’s beauty at night.

housing development community empowerment

A Beacon of Hope: Gugulethu’s New Housing Project

The Gugulethu Infill Housing Project is bringing joy and hope to the community of Gugulethu, South Africa, by building 52 new homes for deserving families. This celebration marks a fresh start for many, especially the elderly and middleaged residents who finally have a safe place to call home. As they move in, they not only gain shelter but also a sense of belonging and stability. This project symbolizes the community’s strength and resilience, showing that together, they can overcome challenges and build a brighter future. The new homes are more than just buildings; they represent dreams coming true and a promise of better days ahead.

colonel celeste van der klashorst gender-based violence

Championing Justice: The Journey of Colonel Celeste van der Klashorst

Colonel Celeste van der Klashorst is a fearless leader in South Africa’s fight against violence and crime, especially those targeting women and children. With over thirty years of service, she created Child Protection Units and now leads the National SECI Unit, tackling serious issues like serial rape and child pornography. Her team’s recent success in a major operation has led to arrests and rescued children, showing the powerful impact of her work. Colonel van der Klashorst inspires others with her passion for justice, making her a shining example of hope and resilience in the battle for a safer society.