As the 24 November 2024 deadline looms, Eskom is reminding all prepaid electricity customers to upgrade their meters to avoid a sudden power outage and the hefty cost of a meter replacement. Prepaid meters still using Key Revision Number 1 (KRN1) will stop accepting tokens after the deadline, meaning users risk losing power once their current credit runs out. To prevent this and ensure a smooth transition to the updated system, follow these simple steps to upgrade your Eskom prepaid meter.
Why You Need to Upgrade Your Eskom Prepaid Meter
Eskom has set a hard deadline for prepaid meter users: by 24 November 2024, all customers must upgrade their meters to avoid losing access to electricity. Customers still on KRN1 may have been using outdated or unauthorized tokens, leading to the eventual inoperability of their meters.
If your meter remains updated, once your current electricity credit is depleted, your meter will stop working, and you’ll face an expensive replacement fee of up to R12,000. Eskom urges customers to act now by purchasing electricity from authorized vendors, which will provide you with the necessary codes to update your meter.
How to Check if Your Eskom Prepaid Meter Needs Upgrading
Before upgrading your meter, it’s essential to check whether it’s already updated or needs recoding. Here’s how:
- Enter the following code on your meter keypad:
- 1844 6744 0738 4377 2416
- Check the displayed number:
- If it shows 1 or 1.2, your meter still needs to be updated.
- If it shows 2 or 2.2, your meter is already updated and no further action is needed.
Step-by-Step Guide to Recode Your Eskom Prepaid Meter
Once you’ve confirmed that your meter requires an update, follow these simple steps to recode it:
- Purchase Electricity: Visit an authorized vendor to buy electricity. You’ll receive two 20-digit update tokens in addition to your usual 20-digit prepaid token.
- Enter the First 20-Digit Update Code: Enter the first 20 digits of your recode token into your meter and wait for the system to accept it.
- Enter the Second 20-Digit Update Code: Enter the second 20 digits of the recode token and wait for confirmation.
- Enter Your Prepaid Token: Finally, enter the usual 20-digit electricity token you received when you purchased electricity to recharge your meter.
Also Read: How to Register Your Meter Number at Eskom Online
By following these steps, your meter will be updated, and you’ll be able to continue purchasing and using electricity without interruption.
Additional Help and Support from Eskom
Eskom understands that upgrading your meter might seem daunting, so they’ve set up several support channels to assist customers:
- SMS Assistance: Text “HELP” to 31220
- Call Centre: Dial 0860 103 089 for assistance
- Online Support: Visit the Alfred Chatbot for step-by-step guidance
Additionally, Eskom’s Customer Services Hubs and Customer Network Centres (CNCs) are open to assist customers who face any issues with the recoding process.
Don’t Wait – Act Now!
If you haven’t already recoded your meter, the time to act is now. Eskom has been running public awareness campaigns since August 2023, and the deadline is fast approaching. Customers who successfully update their meters by 24 November 2024 will avoid the risk of losing power and having to pay for an expensive meter replacement.
Conclusion
Eskom’s upgrade to prepaid meters is a vital step in ensuring continuous and secure electricity for all customers. To avoid power loss and costly replacement fees, make sure to update your Eskom prepaid meter before the 24 November 2024 deadline. Follow the steps outlined above to recode your meter, and reach out to Eskom’s support channels for any assistance. Stay informed, stay connected, and ensure uninterrupted power supply for your home or business.