The Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA) launched a significant meter upgrade exercise at their head office on Siaka Stevens Street, Freetown, on August 1, 2024. This initiative aims to transition from the current STS1 (Standard Transfer Specification) to the updated STS2, which is a global standard for prepaid electricity meters.
Mrs. Sarah Kamara, head of EDSA’s customer call center, explained the importance of this upgrade. She emphasized that all prepaid meter users in Sierra Leone must complete the upgrade by November 30, 2024. Failure to do so will render the meters inoperable, preventing users from accessing electricity. The upgrade process requires customers to purchase their usual electricity credit, for which they will receive a 60-digit code. This code must be entered into the meter in three separate sets of 20 digits. Depending on the service provider, such as EDSA, Africell, Orange, Qcell, or others, customers may see the digits separated by commas. After entering each set, users should wait 15 seconds before proceeding to the next.
Mrs. Kamara reassured customers that the upgrade process is simple and free. She advised that if anyone experiences difficulties, they should contact EDSA for assistance, either by visiting the office, calling 672, or reaching out via WhatsApp at 077672672. A video tutorial is also available to guide users through the process.
Ing. Joe Lahai, the Director General of EDSA, further elaborated on the procedure. He likened the upgrade to the initial process of topping up a prepaid meter, except that instead of a six-digit code, customers will input a 20-digit code in three segments. He assured the public that making a mistake during the input process would not cause any harm, and users can retry until they successfully enter the code.
The Deputy Minister of Energy, Eldred Tunde Taylor, highlighted the overarching goal of EDSA to deliver seamless service to the public. He noted that the upgrade exercise would commence in areas with the highest number of customers and that the majority of meters, approximately 85% to 90%, are compatible with the STS2 system. For the remaining incompatible meters, particularly the Apartone and Inmonised meters, EDSA will provide replacements to ensure all customers can transition to the new system. The Deputy Minister emphasized that this upgrade is entirely free of charge and warned customers not to pay anyone for this service.
In conclusion, the EDSA meter upgrade exercise is a crucial step towards improving the efficiency and reliability of electricity distribution in Sierra Leone. Customers are encouraged to complete the upgrade promptly and reach out for support if needed.