Electricity meters cause tension in Rabie Ridge.

The Rabie Ridge Residents Association hosted the meeting where community members voiced their disappointment about the meters.

Most residents said they were told their electricity bills would be lower if they had the prepaid meters installed.

“I am paying R1 200 per month for a household of four people. We are careful to not waste electricity but still the electricity is high,” said resident Rodah Ngoma. “I pay R800 just for myself,” said an indignant Harmington Sivuthu.

Chairperson of the association Charles Jones said the association had conducted an investigation and were going to do further research into the meters.

In response, Louis Seeco of City Power said, “It is clear that people have not been adequately educated as to how the meters work. As City Power we will ensure that this education takes place.”

Residents also complained about the battery life of the meters as well as poor service they received from personnel at City Power.

Seeco countered and said, “There is no us and them. We work for the City of Johannesburg and therefore for the [citizens of this township]. There are channels to which can be followed by [citizens in order to make your complaints heard.]”