In Johannesburg, Fourways and surrounding area residents say that the Eskom smart meters installed in their homes have helped them bypass complete blackouts during loadshedding.

Since the project began in Fourways last month, residents say that before loadshedding begins, the smart meter will prompt them to reduce their energy consumption via a message through the meter or SMS. The meters allow them to continue using essential appliances and to keep on the lights during loadshedding stages 1-4.

“It’s been fine for me… even though there is loadshedding, we have our TV on and our fridge. No geyser, no washing machine, dishwasher, so we preserve energy. I think it’s a very good thing,” stated a resident.

Another said, “If you stay within the limit, it actually works.”

Darul Ihsan Media Desk