Sam Modiba, spokesman for the metro, had the following to say on the electricity meter problem:
“The matters regarding the meters are being investigated, with a view to deal with allegations regarding irregularity during the meter installation process by an EMM subcontractor.
“It is confirmed through existing communication that the meters burnt on May 16 2013.
“Earlier meter readings processed were queried even before this date, as a degree of fluctuation was noticed.
“In the meantime, the meters will be replaced and the accounts normalised though standard Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality methodologies.
“The finance department will only be in a position to revisit electricity charges when the replacement meters are operational and average consumption is available.
“The charges queried are interim (estimated readings), levied followed by high consumption processed.
“In both cases there are current payment extensions recorded for dealing with the pending replacements, as well as the waiting period to obtain average consumption.
“Meter repairs are scheduled through an electronic workflow system, tracking a complex route through the billing system (remove and close off readings on old meters, then record new meters and start readings on them), followed by the actual meter installation, and so forth.
“This process does take some time, however, acts as a safeguard against a billing system containing inaccurate data on meters and readings, etc.
“No customer should pay any metro employee, or any contractor of the metro, any money.
“Paying bribes/backhands will strengthen this destructive behaviour, to the detriment of our city and its customers.
“There is never any reason where a metro employee (or contractor) is required to take money from a customer.
“All transactions take place inside a metro rates hall and result in an official receipt being given to that customer.
“Unrelated to the above, but important to note, is that any meter made slower, or bypassed will be picked up through various check mechanisms in the city and the result will be a hefty reinstatement fee and backdated account to the customer involved.
“Power will be disconnected to that property for as long as it takes to complete administrative actions and for penalty payments to be received.
“We will also consider criminal prosecution in every case recorded.”
