City Power launches major meter normalisation drive in Naturena

City Power (CP) initiated a meter audit and normalisation programme in Naturena to address faulty and non-vending prepaid meters as part of an ongoing effort across Johannesburg.

This operation, which began on January 22, will ensure all customers have accurate meters, paying for their electricity.

CP spokesperson Isaac Mangena said Naturena currently has 2 795 prepaid customers registered on the CP database. Alarmingly, only 1 538 are actively purchasing electricity, reflecting a 55% purchasing rate.

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“Despite extensive community engagements, technicians have faced challenges, including restricted access to properties, intimidation, and resistance to installing smart prepaid meters,” he added.

The Token Identifier (TID) rollover project, launched in November 2024, makes it essential for all customers, including those previously not vending, to transition to compliant meters.

“All customers within our supply areas must have the proper meters to ensure they are paying for the electricity they consume,” said Mangena.

Customers refusing to participate in the normalisation process, particularly those with faulty or tampered meters, face disconnection.

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Penalties for single-phase connections exceed R14 000, while three-phase connections may incur fines of over R30 000, in addition to reconnection fees.

Appeal for cooperation
CP urges residents to grant authorised metering technicians access to their properties.

“Customer cooperation is vital in ensuring the success of this programme,” Mangena emphasised.

Local councillors and community leaders, CP engaged with through outreach efforts and educational campaigns supported the initiative.

Future phases of the programme will extend to other Service Delivery Centres (SDCs) in Johannesburg.

Residents will be notified of specific dates through councillors and community communication channels.

Assistance for indigent customers.

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CP is encouraging indigent customers, including pensioners, child-headed households, and those earning less than R6 000 per month, to register for the Expanded Social Package (ESP) at the City of Johannesburg offices.

This programme provides qualifying individuals with access to free basic electricity.

Mangena reiterated the importance of community participation, stating they expect residents to cooperate fully, as this programme is designed to benefit everyone by ensuring fairness and accountability.