Eskom says its customers have an obligation to grant employees access to their property for meter reading purposes.<\/p>\n
In a statement on Monday (27 September), the power utility said it had seen an increase in the number of customers refusing Eskom or Eskom-appointed contractors access to their properties.<\/p>\n
This results in customers being billed on estimates instead of actual readings, it said. “Long estimated accounts contribute to poor estimation performance, which results in under or over-billing customers.”<\/p>\n
In terms of section 23 of the Electricity Regulation Act, Eskom has powers of entry and inspection to any premises which it supplies electricity to.<\/p>\n
The Act permits Eskom employees to enter premises and inspect the lines, meters fittings, and other equipment at all reasonable times.<\/p>\n
“Failure to grant Eskom access to the property for the purpose of meters reading or any other authorised work may result in your supply being disconnected and penalties being charged.<\/p>\n
“These penalties vary from, but are not limited to, additional charges for having to execute special meter readings and adjustments to accounts to offset any inaccuracy in billing.”<\/p>\n
Monde Bala, Eskom’s group executive for the distribution division, said that Eskom personnel would at all times carry authorised identification, and all Covid-19 protocols will be followed.<\/p>\n
Bala said that Eskom aims to ensure accurate accounts for all customers.<\/p>\n
\n#Eskom<\/a> #MediaStatement<\/a><\/p>\n
Eskom reminds customers of their obligation to grant its employees access to their property for meter reading purposes pic.twitter.com\/CZCQijlsT3<\/a><\/p>\n
\u2014 Eskom Hld SOC Ltd (@Eskom_SA) September 27, 2021<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n