Kenya Power Rolls Out New Digital Meter Reading System to Boost Billing Accuracy

Kenya Power has launched a nationwide push to install a digital meter reading system using Optical Character Recognition (OCR) technology. This is a major shift for the utility company, aiming to simplify billing and speed up meter readings for millions of postpaid customers.

The new system replaces the traditional manual process for meter readings - one which has long been prone to errors and delays.

How Kenya Powers new OCR system works

For years , meter readers manually put in meter readings - a slow laborious process that often resulted in mistakes. With OCR that's all changed.

A meter reader simply snaps a photo of the meter display on their smart phone and the system instantly records accurate data.

According to Richard Wida Kenya Power’s Commercial Cycle Manager when asked about the new system:

“Technology is a major game-changer for our business. With OCR the meter reader will just scan the meter and the system will automatically pick the readings - this saves loads of time and gets rid of human error.”

This digital switch follows a six month pilot in Nairobi in 2023 which has now paved the way for a full scale rollout.

Deploying the new system to 1.8 million postpaid meters

Kenya Power plans to roll out OCR technology across all of the 1.8 million postpaid meters which still require a monthly physical reading. These meters account for the majority of postpaid users - and also the majority of complaints.

Misread or poorly recorded meter data is a major cause of disputes. By putting the process on autopilot Kenya Power expects to see a significant drop in:

• Incorrect bill entries

• Delayed billing

• Customer complaints

• Data errors

Better customer experience through digital tools

The OCR project is part of Kenya Power’s drive to push towards more digital self-service options. Customers can already check their bills , report outages and submit their own readings through:

• MyPower App

• USSD code 977#

Currently customers who choose the self-read option have to manually enter the readings. Kenya Power now plans to integrate OCR so customers can simply snap a photo of their meter using their phone.

Wida said this is part of their long term plans:

“We want customers to enjoy the convenience of scanning their meters with hardly any chance of error.”

The smart meter rollout continues

Alongside the OCR rollout, Kenya Power is upgrading its network with smart meters targeting:

• Large industrial and commercial clients

• Small and medium sized enterprises

• A selection of households

These smart meters support two-way communication allowing remote readings, disconnections, and reconnections - all of which reduces the need for manual visits.

A new era of accurate, faster billing

Kenya Power’s adoption of OCR technology is a significant step towards modernizing its operations. By automating meter readings and expanding digital tools, the company aims to offer customers a smoother, more reliable billing experience while reducing disputes and making things more efficient all round.

As the rollout continues countrywide, millions of postpaid customers can look forward to faster readings , fewer errors and better customer service.