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selling of prepaid meters was not designed for high density suburbs where “most poor people live”. He made the remarks yesterday while addressing journalists in Harare on initiatives to boost the power situation in the country.
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Said Minister Mangoma: “These meters will be provided by private players and Zesa will be able to sell some but there is going to competition in the way they are going to be supplied. Some people will offer to sell and install while others will only sell.
“The price range that I have is in the region of US$300 thereabout. They are not expensive and this depends on the area of residence of the consumer. People in high density suburbs, rural areas and light load agriculture consumers do not have to buy these meters. We are saying they are for those in low density areas, businesses and institutions.”
“If you want the meters for free, you can move to the high density areas. Those in low density areas cannot regard US$300 as expensive. Even the rates between high and low density areas are different. It comes with the territory and you stay where you want.”
Prepaid meters have been installed for free in some high density areas since August last year and low density consumers are still waiting to get them.
Government recently issued Statutory Instrument 44A on electricity regulations, which allowed for the selling of the meters to speed up the implementation of the programme. Minister Mangoma said as of Thursday, Zesa Holdings had installed 150 000 meters on domestic and commercial premises.
Online Reporter