Millions of prepaid electricity meters in South Africa might stop working on November 24, 2024, because of old software. This problem is causing worries for people who use electricity, utility companies, and government agencies. They are all trying to find solutions quickly to avoid big problems.
The issue comes from something called the Token Identifier (TID) Rollover. Prepaid electricity meters need special tokens to recharge, but these tokens will stop working after November 24, 2024, if the software isn't updated.
Eskom, the main power company, and other local power companies are trying hard to fix this problem. But because so many meters are affected, it's a big challenge. If the meters aren't updated, many homes and businesses won't be able to recharge their electricity meters, causing big disruptions.
Eskom spokesperson Sikonathi Mantshantsha said, "We know about the TID Rollover issue and are working with others to update the meters. Everyone needs to work together to make sure the electricity supply doesn't get interrupted."
To update the meters, utility companies have to create new tokens that work with the new software. Then, people have to put these tokens into their meters before November to keep the electricity running.
Some cities are already telling people about the changes and how to update their meters. They are having meetings, giving out information, and sending messages to make sure everyone knows what to do.
Source:https://x.com/EversonLuhanga/status/1809632117732860369?t=H4P9X_SthlMxKn7OAYDHmQ&s=19