This is according to Van Dyk Park resident, Kerry Ibbitson, following the statement by the Ekurhuleni metro in a previous article (Understanding prepayment electricity).
“Tariff A is aimed at vulnerable customers, for example, those using well below 600 units per month, while Tariff B is the correct tariff for customers using slightly more than 600 units per month.
“Only when you query it will the metro change you from Tariff A to Tariff B,” says Ibbitson.
According to the metro spokesperson, Themba Gadebe, tariff choice is optional for every consumer.
“When someone builds a property the consumer is responsible for the choice of tariff and must indicate the choice on the application form.
“Tariff A is not necessary the more expensive tariff. Tariff A is a block tariff (the more you use the more expensive it becomes) and Tariff B is a fixed cost per unit unlimited.”
He also said that it is not necessary to visit Council’s offices to change tariffs – this can be done via e-mail on the prescribed application form.
Ibbitson also complained about the metro providing the public with contact details to effect the tariff change, but no one answers the phone or responds to e-mails.
Gadebe provided the following alternative contact details for change of tariff:
* Boksburg conventional meters: Thea.Strydom@ekurhuleni.gov.za or 011 999 5841.
* Boksburg prepaid meters: Thulane.Hlatshwayo@ekurhuleni.gov.za or 011 999 5610.
“In order to update account details, the account holder should visit their local customer care centre with a copy of their identity document.” – @IschkeBoksburg
