Why must prepaid electricity meters be updated?
The current pre-paid electricity metering software will expire in 2024 for all prepaid electricity meters in
South Africa.
Pre-paid meters must be updated, or you won’t be able to recharge your meter with new tokens and
you won’t have power supply.
Which meters must be upgraded?
All prepaid electricity and prepaid water meters in South Africa.
By when must meters be updated?
By November 2024.
How should meters be updated?
It will be a combination of field teams and making use of the vending system. When using the vending
system, two 20-digit update codes will be included, along with the usual electricity token.
- Enter the first 20 digits update code and wait for it to accept.
- Enter the second 20 digits update code and wait for it to accept.
- Enter your 20 digits token to recharge your units as normal.
For how long is the update codes valid?
The two 20-digit update codes must be entered into the meter immediately after it has been supplied
as no other recharge token will be accepted by the meter.
What happens if I throw away my slip, will I be able to get the 40 digits again?
You will have to call the municipality to get the code. Currently there is no way to get a copy at a
vendor.
What if I can’t update my own meter?
Municipal contracted teams will assist in these specific cases
How do I verify whether a person coming to my home to assist me with an update is from
the Municipality?
The field teams will carry photo identification and official documentation. Customers may phone the
municipality or Ontec for verification.
I am in line for the municipal ongoing meter replacement program (to replace old
infrastructure), will the new meter be software compliant once installed? Would I need to
update the code?
All new meters installed will already be updated.
Will my old unused tokens still work after the upgrade?
No, all old tokens must be entered prior to the update being completed.
Will my electricity meter use more electricity after the software update?
Updates to the software of prepaid electricity meters will not affect the user’s electricity usage in any
way as it does not affect the meter’s calibration.
Will my electricity units disappear or decrease when the meter is updated?
No, a customer’s electricity units will not be affected by the update. However, should customers have
any technical issues; they are encouraged to contact the Municipality.