Resident recounts prepaid electricity battle

A Bezuidenhout Valley resident owes City Power nearly R20 000 for electricity she said she did not use.

Mrs Angela Costa said in a bid to reduce electricity expenses she moved to a prepaid meter in April 2014.

“That did not work. I have since encountered many problems. Firstly, they installed a dysfunctional meter. Then they installed a meter which was not in my name. I could buy electricity but it was not on my name. That was resolved after a few fights. However, I am still being charged enormous amounts. I am charged as if I am still using a post-paid meter,” said Mrs Costa.

She said her prepaid meter is working fine now and it is under her name.

“This means I am charged twice. I am charged for what I use and for what someone else is using,” she said.

Mrs Costa said the documents proving that she is using a prepaid meter did not help.

“I went to City Power offices several times. During those visits, I was sent from pillar to post. I showed them slips I received when buying electricity. I showed them the letter from them confirming that I have installed a prepaid meter. I was told to go and find a job card that was signed after my prepaid meter was installed from one of their offices. I would think they should do that,” she said.

She said the letter she received states that she owes R19 354.

Mrs Costa said one Saturday, while she had guests in her home, she was notified about a notice placed on her gate.

‘You are herewith advised that as at 2015-07-24, your account in respect of services and other related charges reflects an amount of R18 190,68 outstanding’.

“That is what it said. My husband asked me why the officials who placed the note did not come in and give us this note. The worst is, we do not owe them anything,” said Mrs Costa.

City Power senior communications officer, Mr Sydney Mphahlele, said that he would investigate Mrs Costa’s complaint.