For the latest brand focused South African news and inspiring stories, visit www.nowinsa.co.za.
By Gift Sebiloane
PRETORIA — the South African power utility Eskom is urging all prepaid electricity customers to upgrade their meters by Sunday, November 24 (deadline).
The urgent call comes as the deadline for transitioning to Key Revision Number 2 (KRN 2) approaches. Meters still using KRN1 will no longer accept electricity tokens after this date, potentially leaving households without power.
Briefing the media on the finalisation of the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP 2023) in Pretoria Wednesday, Minister of Electricity and Energy Kgosientsho Ramokgopa said: “If a customer meter is not being re-coded for KRN1 which is a new generation now going to the future, just accept that your tokens will not be accepted. Essentially you’re sitting in a situation where you just don’t have access to electricity.”
He said the process to get reconnected for those who fail to upgrade this week will be long and costly – with the cost borne by the customer. On any possibility of a deadline extension, Minister Ramokgopa told the SABC News later on the day that the decision is irreversible: “It’s not extendable, it’s a technical issue. So it’s a hard stop.”
Why the upgrade?
The upgrade to KRN2 is mandated by the Standard Transfer Specification Association (STSA) to enhance meter security and prevent tampering. The transition ensures the continued acceptance of valid prepaid tokens and maintains the integrity of the electricity vending system.
What happens if you don’t upgrade?
If your meter remains on KRN1 after the November 24 deadline, you will be unable to purchase electricity tokens once your current credit is depleted. This means a sudden loss of power and the inconvenience of having to replace your meter, a cost that could reach up to R12,000.
How to check and upgrade?
Eskom has made it simple to check your meter’s KRN status:
- Enter the code: 1844 6744 0738 4377 2416 on your meter keypad.
- Check the display: The screen will show either the number 1 or 2, potentially with accompanying letters. ‘1’ signifies your meter needs an upgrade to KRN2.
If your meter requires an upgrade, rest assured that Eskom has taken steps to ensure a smooth process. The power utility has confirmed that all 6.9 million prepaid meters under its purview are ready for the update.
