Eskom is accelerating the rollout of smart meters to power up to the Matjhabeng community with smarter, safer, and more reliable technology.
The smart meter rollout programme in the Free State has moved to Kutlwanong following engagements with the local leadership.
Since 2 March Eskom is visiting customers in Kutlwanong for data collection and meter replacements.
Meter replacements will be done in phases.
Customers with smart meters benefit from having real-time control of electricity usage
Customers with smart meters benefit from having real-time control of electricity usage, accurate billing for post-paid customers and a seamless service experience.
In addition, these customers can participate in Eskom’s demand response programme and will be able to load tokens remotely.
Customers are requested to grant Eskom officials access to their properties and to have all critical information readily available, including their Identity Documents and contact details. Eskom staff will be wearing Eskom protective clothing, will carry identification cards and will be driving Eskom-branded vehicles. For their own peace of mind, customers may request proof of their identity.
All customers will receive a new smart meter at no cost.
All customers will receive a new smart meter at no cost. Any electricity credit from their old meter will be transferred to the new meter.
If a prepaid customer has not been buying electricity, they will be issued with a remedial charge of R6 052,60. Although the meter will be changed immediately, electricity will not be switched on until the remedial charge has been paid in full. Should a tamper on the newly installed smart meter be detected, a remedial charge of R12 105,20 will be issued and prosecution under the Criminal Matters Amendments Acts will be considered.
Failure to pay the tamper fee or continuous tampering will result in the installation being removed.
Smart meters should not be tampered with
Smart meters should not be tampered with as Eskom is able to monitor buying patterns real time. Customers should never give cash to any Eskom staff member or contractor.
All payments, including remedial charges, must only be made through the official Eskom bank account provided.
Any suspicious behaviour should be reported to Eskom immediately at 08600 37566 or via the Eskom toll-free crime hotline on 0800 11 27 22.
