Eskom is urging all prepaid electricity customers to ensure their meters are updated. Meters still using the Key Revision Number 1 (KRN1) will no longer accept electricity tokens after the deadline, leading to power loss and costly replacements. If you’re unsure whether your prepaid meter is upgraded, this comprehensive guide provides detailed steps to check, upgrade if necessary, and answers common questions.
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Why It Is Important to Upgrade Your Prepaid Meter
Failure to upgrade your prepaid electricity meter before 24 November 2024 could have serious consequences, including:
- Inoperable Meter: Meters still on KRN1 will no longer accept electricity tokens. Once your current credit depletes, you will lose power.
- Costly Replacement: A non-functional meter will require replacement, which could cost up to R12,000, a fee payable by the customer.
- Legal and Supply Issues: Customers using unauthorized tokens may also face penalties or disconnection.
Upgrading your meter ensures continued electricity supply and avoids unnecessary costs and inconvenience.
How to Check If Your Prepaid Meter Is Upgraded
Step 1: Use the Meter Keypad Test
- Enter the Test Token: On your prepaid meter keypad, enter the following 20-digit token:
- Check the Response:
- If the response shows 1 or 1.2, your meter still needs to be recoded.
- If the response shows 2 or 2.2, your meter is already updated, and no further action is required.
To update your meter, start by checking if your pre-paid meter is on KRN1 (not updated) or KRN2 (updated). Enter the code 1844 6744 0738 4377 2416 on your meter keypad. If your meter displays “2,” “2.2,” or “r2: t2,” it has been upgraded to KRN2. If it… pic.twitter.com/jKgtfI7R0U
— Eskom Hld SOC Ltd (@Eskom_SA) November 21, 2024
Step 2: Verify Through Your Electricity Vendor
If the keypad method does not work or if you are uncertain about the results:
- Purchase Electricity: Buy electricity from an authorized vendor.
- Receive Recode Tokens: If your meter is not yet upgraded, the vendor will provide two sets of 20-digit codes along with your purchase token. These codes are required for recoding your meter.
- Follow Recode Instructions: Use the steps below to complete the recoding process.
How to Recode Your Prepaid Meter
Step 1: Enter the Recode Tokens
- First Token: Enter the first 20-digit recode token provided by the vendor on your meter keypad.
- Second Token: Enter the second 20-digit recode token.
- Confirm Update: Your meter should now display the updated Key Revision Number (2 or 2.2).
Step 2: Recharge Your Meter
- Enter the 20-digit token from your latest electricity purchase to recharge your meter.
- Verify that the recharge is successful and your meter functions normally.
What to Do If You Encounter Issues
If you face challenges during the recoding process, Eskom has set up several support systems:
- Community Support Teams: These teams are available to assist with recoding, even on weekends.
- Online Self-Service Tools: Use the Alfred Chatbot available at https://alfred.eskom.co.za/chatroom/.
- Customer Care: Contact Eskom’s customer support for guidance or technical assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is Key Revision Number 1 (KRN1)?
KRN1 refers to an older version of the encryption used by prepaid electricity meters. Tokens generated for KRN1 meters will no longer work after 24 November 2024, necessitating an upgrade to KRN2.
2. How do I know if I am using unauthorized tokens?
Unauthorized tokens are typically purchased from unofficial vendors or criminal syndicates. If you haven’t bought tokens from authorized outlets in over six months, your meter may not be updated. Always buy from recognized vendors.
3. What happens if I miss the deadline?
Meters not upgraded by 24 November 2024 will stop working after current credits are depleted. Replacing the meter could cost up to R12,000.
4. Can I upgrade my meter without buying electricity?
No, the upgrade process requires recode tokens that are issued only when you purchase electricity from authorized vendors.
5. What if I’m unable to update my meter by myself?
Eskom provides support through community teams and self-service tools. You can also contact their helpline for assistance.
6. How much does it cost to recode my meter?
Recode tokens are free of charge and provided automatically when you buy electricity from authorized vendors.
Conclusion
The 24 November 2024 deadline is fast approaching, and it is crucial for prepaid electricity customers in South Africa to ensure their meters are upgraded to avoid power loss and costly replacements. Checking and upgrading your meter is a simple process that can be completed in a few steps:
- Check Your Meter Status: Use the keypad test or purchase electricity from an authorized vendor.
- Recode If Necessary: Enter the recode tokens provided to update your meter.
- Seek Support: Utilize Eskom’s customer care or community teams if you encounter issues.
Act now to secure your electricity supply and avoid unnecessary expenses. Eskom encourages all customers to verify their meters today to ensure uninterrupted power after the deadline.
Image Courtesy: Eskom
