One of the first things you’ll need to do if you just moved to a new residence or place of business in South Africa and your electricity is provided by Eskom is to register your electricity meter. This procedure helps you prevent unplanned power outages and guarantees that your usage is accurately paid.
Why You Need to Register Your Eskom Meter
Eskom uses prepaid and postpaid meter systems to track electricity usage. Whether you’re using a smart meter, a split meter, or a traditional prepaid unit, registering your meter with Eskom:
- Links the meter to your name and property
- Ensures accurate billing
- Enables top-up purchases for prepaid users
- Helps Eskom detect and reduce electricity theft
Failing to register can lead to disconnection or incorrect billing — and that’s the last thing anyone wants!
What You’ll Need
Before you start the registration process, make sure you have the following:
- Your ID (South African ID or passport if you’re a foreign national)
- Proof of residence (like a municipal bill, lease agreement, or rates account)
- Meter number (usually found on the front of the meter)
- Account number (if you’ve already been issued one by Eskom)
How to Register Your Eskom Meter
There are a few different ways to register your Eskom meter, depending on your location and meter type:
1. Call Eskom Directly
- Phone the Eskom Contact Centre: 08600 37566
- Follow the prompts to speak to a consultant
- Provide your details and meter number
2. Register via Email
- Send your documents and request to: customerservices@eskom.co.za
- Include your full name, ID number, contact details, and meter number
3. Visit a Local Eskom Office
- You can find the nearest Eskom office using their website or call center
- Bring all required documentation and fill in a registration form
4. Online (Limited Areas)
- Some regions support online registration via the Eskom website: www.eskom.co.za
- This is mostly for postpaid or smart meters in urban areas
After Registration
Once you’ve registered:
- You’ll receive a confirmation SMS or email
- Prepaid users will be able to buy electricity tokens linked to their meter
- Postpaid users will start receiving regular bills or notifications
If you’ve registered and are still having issues, Eskom’s customer service line can help resolve delays or incorrect linkages.
Pro Tip: Buying Electricity After Registration
For prepaid users, once your meter is registered:
- You can buy electricity from mobile apps (like Capitec, FNB, EasyPay, or SnapScan)
- Or use physical vendors at supermarkets, petrol stations, or spaza shops
Make sure you provide the correct meter number when purchasing to avoid wasted tokens.
Final Thoughts
Registering your Eskom meter might feel like a hassle, but it’s an essential step to ensure uninterrupted service and fair billing. Whether you’re a tenant, homeowner, or small business operator, getting it done right the first time can save you hours of frustration down the line.