The Egyptian Ministry of Electricity and Renewable Energy has decided to freeze the procedures for stopping external charging of code and old Iskra IC electricity meters. The meters in question have an 11-digit serial number starting from the left. This decision comes after Al-Masry Al-Youm reported that charging would be stopped remotely for these meters, and subscribers would be required to visit affiliated engineering offices to change them.
The Egyptian Electricity Holding Company issued an official statement denying reports that charging for some meters had been halted. The company confirmed that all charging systems at electricity distribution companies and electronic payment outlets are working normally and around the clock without interruption. The statement assured citizens that services are available through all approved means and payment channels.
The company urged citizens to communicate directly with the hotline (121) or visit branches across governorates if they encounter any obstacles or have complaints. The company emphasized its commitment to improving services and facilitating communication mechanisms. This move aims to address concerns and provide support to subscribers.
Despite the official denial, many citizens reported on the company's Facebook page that distribution companies had taken field measures to stop charging and required subscribers to change meters. Some citizens reported that their 2016 meters were stopped, although the official decision targeted meters from 2014 and 2015. These reports confirm Al-Masry Al-Youm's exclusive story.
Citizens claimed that when they contacted the hotline or visited affiliated engineering offices, they were informed that their current cards would be stopped and that they needed to start procedures to replace their meters with the new system. This involves paying for the new meter in installments, as reported by Al-Masry Al-Youm.
Al-Masry Al-Youm had previously reported on the directive issued to distribution companies to stop remote electronic charging and smart applications for these meters. The reason cited was technical difficulties related to encryption and secure linking with the new unified charging system. There were also vulnerabilities in the old software that prevented direct linking to modern systems.
Sources close to the ministry stated that the holding company's statement is a temporary freeze on implementing these regulatory decisions. This allows for the development of a comprehensive plan for gradual replacement, taking into account the capacity of engineering offices and the availability of alternative meters. The goal is to ensure uninterrupted charging services and avoid imposing unexpected burdens on subscribers.
Key points
- The Ministry of Electricity has put on hold its decision to stop charging code meters and old Iskra IC meters following public outcry.
