George makes use of a registered service provider ITRON, who performs the function of meter reading and who works hand-in-hand with the municipality to ensure that energy losses are managed and that data integrity is enhanced.
“George Municipality strives to ensure the safety of all its citizens and as such, ITRON follows a strict protocol for meter inspections“, said Portfolio Councillor for Electro-technical Services, Wilbur Harris.
The protocol is made up of the following:
1. All prepayment meters are inspected in George within a 36 month cycle. Lists are produced to indicate the planned inspections for a specific day/week/ month and distributed to the sub-contractor.
2. Inspectors visit these sites, firstly introduce themselves and produce an ID card for positive identification.
3. They explain the reason for their visit and ask for permission to do the inspection of the meter.
4. A Hand Held Unit (HHU) is used to determine the GPS co-ordinates of the meter (residence) and an electronic questionnaire is completed by the inspector.
5. The meter is inspected for a seal, units and visible possible tampering. It may be necessary to switch off the main power on the distribution board to confirm everything is working efficiently.
6. All information obtained is captured on the HHU.
7. In the event of the meter being faulty or not sealed, a municipality official will be notified.
8. The inspection is concluded and information is downloaded at the Itron George office.
Should ITRON inspectors not be able to gain access to the premises – either because nobody is home or it is not a convenient time - a notification letter is left for the resident to make arrangements for a time that is convenient.
George residents are warned to be cautious when answering their doors and to follow the identification process as set out above. Residents are also encouraged to contact ITRON on 044 873 5474 to verify the legitimacy of a scheduled inspection or to verify the inspectors who are at your home.
'We bring you the latest George, Garden Route news'
