The Egyptian government has introduced an online platform for citizens to convert their code meters to legal meters, allowing them to benefit from the official consumption brackets and end their reliance on a unified price system. This development comes as part of a broader push to provide electricity services electronically and encourage property owners to formalize their electricity supply.
The code meter system, which has been in place, operates on a unified pricing system of 274 piasters (or 2.74 EGP) per kilowatt-hour for buildings that have not been legalized. In contrast, the conventional metering system uses different consumption brackets. Those with code meters can now apply for conversion after completing the necessary legalization procedures for their properties.
To be eligible for conversion, applicants must have completed the legalization process for any construction violations and provide proof of this to the relevant electricity distribution company. The goal is to regularize the status of subscribers and enable them to benefit from the official consumption brackets.
The required documents for conversion include a national ID card, property ownership contract or proof of usufruct, code meter installation contract, and an official letter confirming completion of the legalization process. Specific documents that can serve as proof include a certificate of utility introduction, Form 7 for legalization, Form 8 confirming completion of legalization, or Form 10 for those who have previously obtained it.
The conversion process involves submitting an application to the relevant electricity distribution company along with the required documents. There are no additional fees for this conversion, and the existing meter can be retained as it is. The process aims to accelerate conversion and regularize subscribers' status, allowing them to benefit from official consumption brackets.
Key to this process is the provision that allows subscribers to continue using their existing prepayment meters, with only their legal status being updated in the company's database. This move is expected to benefit many property owners who have previously been outside the formal electricity supply system.
By facilitating the conversion of code meters to legal meters online and without additional charges, the Egyptian government aims to enhance the formalization of electricity supply across the country. This initiative supports the broader goal of improving the efficiency and transparency of public services.
Key points
- The conversion of code meters to legal meters can be done online without any additional fees.
- Applicants must have completed the legalization process for any construction violations to be eligible for conversion.
- The existing meter can be retained, and only the legal status of the subscriber is updated in the company's database.
