A prepaid electricity meter is one of the best ways to manage your electricity use in Durban. Instead of receiving a monthly bill, you buy electricity units in advance and load them onto your meter. This helps you control spending, avoid unexpected bills, and monitor how much power you use.
If you live in Durban or anywhere within the eThekwini Municipality, you must follow the official process to apply for a prepaid meter. This guide explains everything you need to know in clear, easy English.
What Is a Prepaid Electricity Meter?
A prepaid meter is a device installed in your home that allows you to buy electricity before using it. You receive a 20-digit token number when you buy electricity, and you enter the token into the meter to recharge it.
Benefits of prepaid meters:
- You only spend what you can afford
- No monthly electricity bills
- Easy to track usage
- Helps prevent disconnections due to unpaid bills
- Flexible — buy tokens anytime, anywhere
Because of these advantages, many Durban households are switching from post-paid (monthly billed) electricity to prepaid systems.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for a Prepaid Electricity Meter in Durban
Applying for a prepaid meter must be done through the eThekwini Municipality. You cannot install one yourself or through a private electrician.
Below is a simple step-by-step guide.
1. Visit an eThekwini Customer Service Centre
The first step is to go to your nearest Customer Service Centre and request an application for a prepaid meter.
Some popular centres include:
- Durban Central (City Hall / Rotunda)
- Pinetown Civic Centre
- Umhlanga Municipal Offices
- Bester / KwaMashu Customer Centre
- Isipingo Customer Centre
You can use the office that is closest to your area.
2. Bring the Required Documents
When applying, make sure you carry:
✔ Your ID document
South African ID or passport.
✔ Proof of your address or property
This can include:
- Rates bill
- Title deed (if you own the property)
- Lease agreement with landlord’s permission (if renting)
✔ A completed application form
You can fill one in at the office or download it beforehand from the eThekwini Electricity website.
✔ Landlord consent (if you are a tenant)
The municipality will not install a meter without owner approval.
Having all your documents ready will save you time and prevent delays.
3. Fill In the “Change to Prepaid Meter” Application Form
Ask for the Meter Change-Over Form (sometimes called a New Connection form).
The form asks for:
- Your personal details
- Property details
- Type of meter you want
- Whether you are the owner or tenant
Fill it in clearly and attach all documents.
4. Technical Review and Cost Estimate
After submitting your form, the municipality will:
- Check the property information
- Review the electrical setup
- Determine if the area supports prepaid meters
- Provide a cost estimate
This estimate includes possible installation fees and a deposit.
You will receive a pro-forma invoice showing the amount you need to pay.
5. Make Payment and Open an Electricity Account
Before installation begins, you must:
- Pay the required installation fees
- Pay any deposits requested
- Ensure your municipal account is up to date
Even prepaid customers must have an electricity account for record purposes.
Once payments are complete, your application is officially approved.
6. Prepaid Meter Installation
After everything is approved and paid:
- A qualified municipal technician will schedule a visit
- The old billing meter will be removed (if you have one)
- The new prepaid meter will be installed
- The meter will be tested to make sure it works
- You will receive instructions on loading tokens
The installation time varies depending on workload and meter availability, but most customers receive installation within several days to a few weeks after payment.
How to Buy Prepaid Electricity Tokens in Durban
Once your meter is installed, buying electricity is easy. You can buy tokens:
✔ At major supermarkets
Pick n Pay, Shoprite, Checkers, SPAR, OK stores, and many spaza shops.
✔ Through banking apps
FNB, Capitec, Nedbank, Absa and Standard Bank all allow purchasing prepaid electricity directly in their apps.
✔ Through online services
SnapScan, prepaid vending apps, and many online platforms.
✔ At municipal vending points
Some municipal offices have electricity vending machines.
When you buy electricity, you receive a 20-digit token. Enter the number into your prepaid meter and the units will load.
Helpful Tips When Applying
- Double-check that your account is not in arrears
- Make sure your documents are valid and clear
- Get your landlord’s written consent early (if renting)
- Ask staff to confirm all fees before you pay
- Keep all receipts and copies of your forms
Common Questions
Can tenants apply for a prepaid meter?
Yes — but you must have written permission from the landlord.
Is the installation free?
No, there is usually a fee and a possible deposit.
Can a private electrician install a prepaid meter?
No. Only eThekwini Municipality technicians can legally install municipal prepaid meters.
How long does it take?
Timeline varies, but many installations happen within 1–3 weeks after payment.
Conclusion
Applying for a prepaid electricity meter in Durban is a straightforward process, but it must be done correctly through the eThekwini Municipality. By preparing your documents, filling in the correct forms, and paying the required fees, you will be on your way to enjoying the benefits of a prepaid electricity system — better budgeting, no monthly bills, and full control over your power usage.
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