Eskom, South Africa’s primary electricity provider, is urgently calling on prepaid electricity users to recode their meters by 24 November 2024. This mandatory update, driven by the Standard Transfer Specification Association (STSA), will ensure continued compatibility with prepaid electricity tokens through a shift to the Key Revision Number (KRN) 2 system.
Why the Update is Necessary
This initiative comes in response to the Token Identifier (TID) issue, which requires all prepaid meters to be updated to avoid operational disruption. After 24 November, any meters not updated to KRN2 will reject electricity tokens, leaving customers without a way to load electricity credit. Eskom and City Power have confirmed that no extensions will be granted beyond this deadline, making it essential for customers to act promptly.
Who is Affected?
Approximately 6.9 million prepaid meters in Eskom-serviced areas will require this update. Fortunately, Eskom has proactively prepared about 97% of these meters, pre-coding them to simplify the customer’s role in the update process.
How to Complete the Update
Eskom has designed the update as a quick and user-friendly process that customers can do independently. Customers only need to purchase electricity tokens from authorized vendors, who will then provide two 20-digit codes to enter into their meters. This straightforward procedure ensures that meters are seamlessly transitioned to KRN2, avoiding potential disruptions in service.
Eskom’s Awareness Efforts
Eskom has launched a comprehensive awareness campaign, including social media updates, radio announcements, and local engagement sessions, to reach all affected customers. This campaign aims to keep customers informed, offering support and assistance to those who may need guidance with the recoding process.
Support for Customers
For customers needing additional support, Eskom’s service teams are ready to help. Customers can reach Eskom’s support line at 0860 037 566 or visit their official website and social media channels for further guidance.
A Final Note from Eskom
Eskom appreciates the proactive response from those who have already updated their meters and encourages others to act quickly to ensure uninterrupted service. The transition to KRN2 is a critical step in maintaining a reliable power supply and supporting a seamless customer experience.
Don’t wait—complete your meter update today to avoid any disruption to your service!