WITH more than half of the 12,300 smart pre-paid electricity meters already installed, and two cases of electricity “theft” being criminally investigated, the Sol Plaatje Municipality in Kimberley has indicated that the smart pre-paid electricity meter installation process which started late in 2024, is continuing at a very satisfying rate.

The municipality said 6,236 from 12,300 pre-paid electricity meters have already been installed.

Municipality spokesperson, Thabo Mothibi said they have increased manpower to accelerate the process.

“We have had an excellent installation process in the last three weeks due to the implementation of an acceleration plan. We now have three teams working in the various residential areas. The response from residents has been heartening, especially in Southridge, where customers have been proactive in requesting that their old meters be replaced. The ward councillor Marie Beylefeld streamlined her communication with residents, boosting the uptake of the meters in the area. Some residents have expressed concerns regarding the issuing of a Certificate of Compliance (CoC). The installation of the meters does not require a certificate, and that can be verified through the Department of Labour,” said Mothibi.

He urged residents to contact the municipality should they have any concerns or complaints about the process.

“We encourage residents to raise queries with the Call-Centre by calling 080 122 9010. We have a backend office dedicated with the task of addressing all concerns. We have apprehended an individual who purported to be working for the municipality and attempted to solicit a payment of R1,500 from a resident who was the beneficiary of a new smart meter. The would-be fraudster claimed that it was not the correct pre-paid electricity meter he supposedly had to install. Residents are advised that the new smart prepaid meters are installed at no expense to customers. Residents should contact us when in doubt. We will equip customers with all required information to avoid them falling victim to scammers,” he said.

Mothibi added that they have also taken legal action against residents who were found to be bypassing the system.

“We had two instances of attempts to bridge the smart meters. These cases will be dealt with legally. We are dutybound, supported by residents, in dealing with theft of electricity, curb losses in the distribution network and eliminating household losses. The municipality is working around the clock to curb electricity losses. Electricity losses is as costly to the municipality as water losses or wastage. Those found to interfere with the system will be prosecuted,” Mothibi warned.