A growing backlog in the installation of prepaid electricity meters has left thousands of eThekwini residents frustrated, with some waiting for up to two years after making upfront payments to the municipality. The crisis—marked by stock shortages, budget constraints, and delayed procurement—has sparked public outrage and calls for urgent intervention.
According to a statement from eThekwini Municipality, the demand for prepaid meters has far exceeded supply in recent months, leaving many residents without the services they have already paid for. Officials claim that the procurement process is “at an advanced stage,” and stock is expected to arrive within the next month. Once received, a six-month “catch-up plan” is intended to address the backlog.
However, opposition parties and community members say this response offers little comfort to those who have endured long delays without any compensation or clear answers.
In a statement released this week, Democratic Alliance (DA) councillor Rajen Maharaj criticised the municipality for what he described as a lack of transparency and accountability. “The city has sold prepaid meters it does not have. Residents have handed over money and received nothing in return. Now, the city claims it is still ‘consolidating’ figures and reviewing how much was collected—this is simply unacceptable,” said Maharaj.
He also raised concerns about the municipality’s refusal to consider compensation or interest on funds paid in advance. “There is no mechanism for paying interest back to residents, yet the municipality expects ratepayers to pay interest when they fall behind. That’s a double standard,” he added.
A recent report published by another media outlet suggests that no budget had been allocated for the purchase of prepaid meters in the current financial year. The report also revealed that the city is facing a shortage of more than 60,000 meters and may need to urgently reprioritise its expenditure to meet public demand.
Several residents who spoke to the *Tabloid Newspaper* echoed these frustrations. “I applied for a prepaid meter in 2022 and paid upfront. Every time I call, they say they’re waiting for stock. It’s unfair that we’re expected to wait indefinitely,” said a resident from Phoenix.
Another resident from Umlazi added: “I’m a pensioner. I switched to prepaid so I could better manage my budget, but instead I’m stuck with estimated bills that don’t reflect my actual usage.”
In response to growing pressure, the DA has submitted formal requests to the city council demanding:
– A full and transparent update on how many meters are paid for and yet to be installed.
– Disclosure of the total funds collected and how they’ve been allocated.
– A clear and public timeline for procurement and installation.
– Consideration of rebates or interest payments to residents who have been financially disadvantaged.
Municipal officials have not yet responded directly to these demands but maintain that efforts are being made to speed up the process.
As the city works to address the ongoing utility backlog, many residents remain in limbo—still waiting for a service they paid for, and for answers they say are long overdue.
Have you been affected by the prepaid meter delays?
Share your experience with us by emailing info@tabloidmedia.co.za or sending a message to our WhatsApp line on 0847864561. Your story may be featured in a follow-up article as we continue to track this issue.
