In a significant move, Eskom has extended the deadline for users of prepaid electricity meters to complete the much-anticipated upgrade to the KRN2 system. Initially set for 24 November 2024, this deadline marked the moment when all prepaid electricity meters still running on the older KRN1 system would cease loading electricity units. However, with millions of meters still not upgraded, Eskom and municipal utilities like Joburg’s City Power have offered a lifeline to customers, assuring that the conversion process can continue through May 2025. Here’s what you need to know about this extension and how it affects prepaid electricity users.
The KRN1 to KRN2 Conversion: Why It Matters
The shift from KRN1 to KRN2 is critical for both Eskom and municipalities to streamline their prepaid electricity systems and reduce illegal electricity usage. Prepaid meters running on the outdated KRN1 system have been unable to load new electricity units since 24 November 2024. According to Eskom’s KRN rollover dashboard, around 1.9 million meters were still operating on KRN1 as of that date, leaving many prepaid customers in a difficult situation. However, the conversion from KRN1 to KRN2 is still possible, with municipal utilities extending the grace period for users to update their meters.
City Power’s Extension: What It Means for Customers
One of the key developments is the announcement from City Power, the municipal electricity provider for Johannesburg, which confirmed that its customers will not be cut off immediately. Prepaid meters that have not yet been upgraded will still be able to generate the necessary key change tokens needed to convert meters from KRN1 to KRN2. This conversion can still be completed until 31 May 2025, giving customers additional time to complete the process. For customers who lost their key change tokens or have not yet had the opportunity to upgrade their meters, this extension provides much-needed relief.
Despite this extension, City Power has made it clear that any meters not converted to the KRN2 system will no longer be able to load electricity units. This means that any customer whose meter is still on KRN1 will not be able to purchase electricity vouchers, rendering their meter effectively useless until the upgrade is completed.
The Impact on Illegal Electricity Users
Eskom is also focused on addressing a more critical issue: illegal electricity usage. This includes instances where customers have bypassed meters or have been purchasing units from unregistered or “ghost” vendors. With KRN1-based tokens no longer being accepted, many of these unauthorized vending machines are no longer functional, leaving customers who have used these illicit methods in a precarious position.
Customers who have been using electricity illegally will need to convert their meters through the legitimate process. Eskom has made it clear that illegal connections will be treated seriously. Any tampered meters must be replaced, and customers who have been caught using ghost vending machines will face significant penalties. Eskom fines customers with illegal connections around R6,000, and only after this fine is paid will the customer be reconnected to the grid.
The Cost of Non-Compliance: Replacement Fees and Penalties
While City Power has assured that it will replace faulty meters at no additional cost to the customer, there are still penalties for non-compliance. Eskom has warned that customers who fail to convert their meters may face replacement costs as high as R12,000. This cost will apply to meters that have not been updated and are still using KRN1. For customers who have been caught using illegal electricity connections or purchasing units from ghost vendors, fines and penalties will apply before reconnection can take place.
What Customers Should Do Now
If you are a prepaid electricity user who has missed the original deadline or is still operating on KRN1, the first step is to contact your local service provider. City Power has already pre-generated key change tokens for outstanding non-vending customers, ensuring that conversions can still take place. However, you must act quickly and ensure your meter is updated before the grace period expires on 31 May 2025.
For customers facing issues with their meters or facing fines, Eskom and City Power have advised that affected users should reach out to their respective Service Delivery Centres for assistance. It’s crucial to ensure that your meter is legally compliant and capable of loading electricity units before the extended deadline passes.
The extension of the deadline for the prepaid meter upgrade to KRN2 offers a vital lifeline for South African consumers. However, the clock is ticking, and those who have not yet completed the upgrade must act quickly to avoid penalties, loss of service, or costly replacements. By adhering to the new deadline and ensuring their meters are legally compliant, prepaid electricity users can continue to enjoy reliable and affordable electricity well into the future.
Stay informed and make sure to contact your electricity provider if you are unsure about the status of your prepaid meter or need assistance with the upgrade process.
