Sol set to disconnect inactive power meters
SOL PLAATJE Municipality will issue penalties for electricity meter tampering and disconnect inactive meters.
Municipal spokesperson Thoko Riet said yesterday that the local authority had noted that a number of power meters have not reflected the purchase of any units over the past 90 days.
“Users are informed of the decision to deactivate meters that are suspected to be inactive. Once deactivated, users will not be able to make further purchases. Meter inspectors will visit affected users to remove the meter, which will be subjected to engineering tests for bypass or tampering,” said Riet.
She added that the affected customers would have to provide reasons why the meter was inactive.
“If the meter is found intact with no signs of tampering, a new meter will be installed within seven days from the date of tamper-free test results.
“The municipality will have no other option but to open a criminal case of theft against the property owner if the meter tests positively for tampering. A new meter will only be installed after the court has decided on the matter.”
Riet said that the property owner would also be liable to pay a fine of R1 949 for a tampering
administration fee, along with R3 726 for the tampering disconnection fee.
“A tampering reconnection fee of R3 726 will be charged while a backdated charge for stolen electricity will be calculated depending on the period in which electricity was tampered with.”
She stated that prepaid customers who were aware that they were using free electricity, either because their meters had been tampered with or bypassed, were encouraged to report the matter so that the meters could be corrected.
“Customers who come forward and report their meters will receive a reduced penalty charge.
“Meter tampering is both illegal and incredibly dangerous because of the risk of injury or electrocution. We rely on the support and co-operation of all our customers in addressing this issue and to ensure that every electricity consumer pays for the use of electricity.”