Eskom has successfully completed the upgrade of its prepaid electricity meters to the Key Revision Number (KRN) 2 system, ensuring continued functionality for its 7.25 million prepaid customers.
Story Summary:
- Eskom has transitioned its prepaid customers to the KRN 2 system, addressing issues with token rollovers.
- Approximately 400,000 former zero buyers are now paying customers as part of this upgrade.
- Assistance continues for customers facing issues related to the changeover, with support available online and at Eskom hubs.
Eskom confirms the KRN 2 system upgrade is complete
This transition, finalised on Sunday, 24 November 2024, has resulted in significant progress in reducing the number of zero buyers—customers who use electricity without paying for it.
Monde Bala, Eskom’s Group Executive for Distribution, revealed that approximately 400,000 former zero buyers have now become paying customers as a result of the upgrade.
Bala expressed gratitude to Eskom staff, community leaders, and stakeholders for their role in helping customers comply.
“In the past ten days, we saw zero buyers coming forward in huge numbers wanting to buy electricity and do the right thing. We will continue to treat these users with dignity and respect as we resolve these issues,” he said.
The KRN 2 system upgrade addressed a critical issue affecting older meters, ensuring compatibility with new token systems.
It also provided Eskom with valuable data to improve its customer database, including updating incomplete records for 341,000 customers.
Eskom’s efforts have significantly reduced the number of zero buyers to 1.7 million, down from a rolling average of 2.1 million over the past year.
Dan Marokane, Eskom’s Group Chief Executive, highlighted the importance of this milestone.
“The result of this technology changeover has brought Eskom around 400,000 previous zero buyers to become new paying customers. Eskom is doing everything that is practically possible to make users of electricity pay for it,” he stated.
While many customers have successfully transitioned, Eskom continues to assist those facing difficulties with loading tokens or updating meters.
Customers who bought electricity before the deadline but could not load their tokens can visit their nearest Eskom hub by 13 December 2024 for support.
For zero buyers with tampered or lost meters, Eskom will assess individual situations and schedule meter updates or replacements as needed.
Customers are urged to resolve outstanding issues before the December deadline to avoid penalties.