South Africans across the country are being urged to act before September 2025 as Eskom prepares for a sweeping nationwide prepaid meter code update. This major change is part of a long-term plan to modernize the electricity grid, improve service delivery, and phase out outdated systems.
From urban apartments to rural homes, millions of households will need to ensure their prepaid meters are upgraded to the new code format or face the risk of disconnection. The clock is ticking — and the sooner you act, the smoother your transition will be.
Why the September 2025 Deadline Matters
The prepaid meter update is not just an administrative step — it’s a nationwide technology shift. Eskom’s current system is based on an older coding format that will no longer work after September 2025. The new format aims to:
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- Improve grid efficiency.
- Reduce system errors and outages.
- Prepare the network for smart meter integration in the future.
If you do not update your meter code before the deadline, your meter will stop accepting electricity top-ups, effectively cutting off your power supply.
Understanding the Prepaid Meter Code Update
Eskom’s new coding system is part of an international initiative to modernize prepaid electricity infrastructure. The process involves generating and loading a new code sequence into each prepaid meter, ensuring compatibility with updated vending systems and better security against fraud.
This is not an optional upgrade — it’s a requirement for all prepaid users. Whether your meter is inside your home, mounted on an outdoor wall, or installed by your municipality, the update process applies to you.
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Steps Every Prepaid User Must Take Before the Deadline
Eskom has outlined a clear action plan to help households prepare for the transition.
| Step | Action | Why It Matters | Deadline | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Check your meter compatibility | Some older meters may need hardware replacement. | ASAP | Local electricity provider |
| 2 | Request your new meter code | The new code is unique to your meter. | Before Sept 2025 | Local provider/Eskom |
| 3 | Top up your credit | Ensures no service gap during the transition. | Ongoing | Self-service or provider |
| 4 | Load the update code | Without it, your meter will stop working. | Before Sept 2025 | Self-service or technician |
| 5 | Verify your connection | Confirms the update was successful. | Post-update | Local technician |
| 6 | Stay informed | Deadlines or processes may change. | Ongoing | Eskom alerts, municipal notices |
Potential Challenges and How to Avoid Them
While the prepaid meter upgrade offers clear benefits, Eskom acknowledges several challenges may arise during the rollout:
- Older meter models may not be compatible with the update and could require full replacement.
- Delays in receiving codes if requests are made too close to the deadline.
- Temporary power interruptions during the code-loading process.
- High customer service demand as millions of users update at once.
Tip: Avoid the September rush. Update your meter well in advance to reduce waiting times and minimize disruption.
Benefits of the New Prepaid Meter System
The short-term inconvenience of updating your prepaid meter comes with long-term advantages:
| Benefit | Description | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Reliability | Improved grid stability and fewer unexpected outages. | High |
| Smart Technology | Foundation for advanced energy management tools. | Medium |
| Billing Accuracy | More precise usage tracking and reduced billing disputes. | High |
| Fraud Protection | Stronger safeguards against code tampering. | High |
| Sustainability | Supports South Africa’s renewable energy transition. | Medium |
How to Check If Your Meter Is Ready
You can confirm your meter’s compatibility and update status in several ways:
- Contact Your Municipality or Provider – They can check your meter’s serial number against Eskom’s database.
- Check Eskom’s Official Website – Lists compatible meter models and update procedures.
- Inspect Your Meter – Some models display error codes or update prompts.
- Call Customer Support – Eskom and municipal offices can confirm readiness.
How to Stay Informed
The September 2025 deadline will not be extended, making ongoing communication critical.
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- Subscribe to Eskom newsletters for official updates.
- Follow Eskom on social media for alerts.
- Attend municipal information sessions or webinars.
- Read local news outlets covering infrastructure updates.
By staying informed, you can ensure you are not caught off guard as the deadline approaches.
What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?
If your meter has not been updated by September 2025:
- You will be unable to load electricity using prepaid vouchers.
- Your household will experience an immediate disconnection.
- You will need to go through an urgent reconnection process, which may take days and could incur additional fees.
Final Advice for Households
Don’t wait until the last month. Start now by:
- Verifying your meter model.
- Contacting your provider for the update process.
- Ensuring you have enough prepaid credit during the transition.
- Keeping a record of all update codes and confirmation receipts.
The earlier you act, the less risk you face of losing power when the September 2025 cutoff arrives.