adminHoldings, a cabinet Minister has said.
Zesa, which is losing over US$100 million annually due to a shambolic billing system, says the new smart metering system would improve revenue collections.
Energy and Power Development Minister Elton Mangoma confirmed that the tender, worth US$500 000 had been awarded to REVMA.
“The tender for the new smart metering system was awarded to REVMA, a local company with South African partners,” he said, adding the State Procurement Board announced the winning bid last week.
He said installation of the modern billing system would start in December. Under the new metering system, consumers would subscribe for power units they can afford, in the same way mobile telephone subscribers buy airtime.
In the short term, this is expected to solve Zesa’s power rationing challenges. When the system is set up, Zesa will phase out generating power bills based on estimates and physical meter readings.
Under the system, consumers would be required to buy new meters that cost about US$30.
The new system would also plug illegal power connections.
As the economy continues to recover, power demand has shot up, prompting Zesa to shed load and increase tariffs.
The Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries has taken Zesa to court following the recent 31 percent tariff rise by Zesa.
Currently, Zimbabwe is generating 1 200 Megawatts against demand estimated at over 2 000 Megawatts with ZESA bridging the deficit by importing power from neighbouring countries. – New Ziana.
Online Reporter