Update, or its lights out!

Landlords and homeowners who use prepaid electricity meters are reminded they have to update the software on their meters by next year, or risk being left without electricity.

It is estimated that more than seven million electricity meters are used countrywide, with the number anticipated to grow to eight million by next year.

The prepayment metering system was a globally adopted system which protects against the reuse of tokens. It was introduced in South African in 1993 with Eskom hoping to connect 10 million households through this method.

This technology relies on a unique Token Identifier system (TID), and represents the minutes elapsed since January 1, 1993.

But as is the case with this type of data, there is a point when the maximum value is reached. This means that the TID value will roll back on November 24 next year and any tokens generated after that date will be rejected.

Upgrades will be carried out at no cost. The initial phase of the upgrade began in Gauteng with other provinces to follow.

Some electricity users receive their power directly from Eskom, whereas others are clients of their local municipality – all of whom follow different schedules and procedures to update the smart meters.

Customers will be able to upgrade their own meters when their area becomes eligible for the update. Update codes will be issued with purchases when this happens.

It is as simple as:

•Entering the first 20 digit update code and wait for it to be accepted.
•Enter the second 20 digit code and wait for it to be accepted.
• After this, enter your 20 digit token to recharge as per usual.

Follow The North Coast Courier on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram & YouTube for breaking news

Telegram Broadcast Service: https://t.me/joinchat/yJULuN8NaCs5OGM0

WhatsApp Broadcast Service: Add The Courier to WhatsApp at 082 792 9405 and WhatsApp your name and surname to be added.