The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has put forth a firm decree that compels every individual utilizing prepaid meters to partake in a mandatory update process. This strategic update aims to uphold the sustained functionality of these meters. The rationale behind this imperative is to avert any prospective disruptions in the recharging and operational employment of the said prepaid meters, extending their reach until November 24, 2024. The official proclamation, transmitted through NERC's verified Twitter conduit on August 22, profoundly underscores the weightiness of this impending modification. It concurrently furnishes users with meticulous directives that warrant rigorous observance.

Understanding the Necessity of Prepaid Meter Updates

The NERC announcement underscores the importance of updating prepaid meters to maintain their operational efficiency. Failing to comply with this update could lead to your inability to recharge your prepaid meter after the specified deadline. To ensure seamless service continuation, it's imperative to comprehend why this update is crucial.

The Role of Credit Tokens and Token Identifiers (TID)

One of the core reasons for the mandated update revolves around the technical specifications of prepaid meters. Licensed meter asset providers, such as Conlog, have revealed that each credit token, which is essential for recharging prepaid meters, contains a unique token identifier (TID). This 20-digit TID is encoded within the token and is linked to a base date that originates from 1993. However, this TID is set to expire in November 2024.

The Consequences of Not Updating

If users fail to update their prepaid meters' base date within the prescribed time frame, the meter could become obsolete. This means that after the expiration date, the meter might not function as expected or might even become unusable.

How to Perform the Prepaid Meter Update

NERC has outlined a user-friendly process for updating prepaid meters, ensuring a hassle-free transition to the new system. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to update your prepaid meter:

Step 1: Obtain key change tokens (KCTs).

Distribution companies (DisCos) are responsible for facilitating the update process. They will issue two free Key Change Tokens (KCTs) to each user. These KCTs are crucial for initiating the update process.

Step 2: Combine with Energy Tokens

Upon purchasing your usual energy tokens, you will also receive two key change tokens alongside them. These tokens, provided by DisCos or their agents, are used to kickstart the update process. It's important to note that subsequent energy purchases will remain unaffected by this update.

Step 3: Applying the Tokens

To perform the update, follow these steps:

1. Visit Your DisCo's Office: Obtain the key change tokens from your DisCo's office.
2. Purchase an Energy Token: After purchasing, you will receive three tokens: two key change tokens and one electricity token.
3. Entering the Tokens: Input the two KCTs (KCT1 and KCT2) into your meter, followed by the electricity token.
4. Completion: Your meter will now be successfully upgraded, ensuring continued functionality.

Significance of the Key Change Token

This 20-digit numerical code serves a unique purpose. While energy recharge tokens add credit to your meter, key change tokens reconfigure the meter according to changes in tariff plans, key revision numbers, or supply groups. Once applied successfully, your meter will seamlessly accept electricity recharge tokens.

Simplified Process for Ikeja and Kano Disco Users

For users of Kano Disco and Ikeja Electric, accessing key change tokens online is easier. Here's how:

Kano Disco Users:

1. Visit http://customercare.kedco.ng and access KEDCO's customer care portal.
2. Choose the key change token' complaint category.
3. Provide your details: name, meter number, email address, phone number, and service address.
4. Submit the request by clicking 'Send Issue'.
5. Wait for the two 20-digit key change tokens to arrive in your email inbox.
6. Input the tokens in the correct order on your meter.

Ikeja Disco Users:

1. Visit https://ie-payments.com/apps/tariff-migration-token/ .
2. Enter your meter number and click 'Submit'.
3. Two 20-digit key change tokens will be generated for your meter.
4. Enter these tokens on your meter to complete the update process.

Play audio

play_arrow

pause