I recently moved into a rented apartment and was placed on a prepaid electricity meter run by Ideal Prepaid (Meter No: 07101978703). I was shocked to find I’m being charged R4.87 per kWh, even at the start of the month — far above the standard Ekurhuleni municipal rate of around R2.67–R3.37 per kWh for Block 1.On 1 July 2025, I bought R250 of electricity and only received 38.4 units (kWh). That includes R35 lost to fees, meaning I paid R6.50+ per unit overall. Meanwhile, friends and family on municipal meters get nearly double the units for the same amount.I’ve emailed Ideal Prepaid for clarity and have received no proper explanation for:Why I’m not on a block tariffWhy I’m charged a flat, high rateWho approved this pricing structureThis feels exploitative — especially during a time when South Africans are struggling with high living costs. Prepaid systems should not be used to overcharge tenants or profit off electricity resales. I will also be lodging a formal complaint with NERSA.I do not recommend Ideal Prepaid, and I urge others to check their tariffs carefully before accepting a private prepaid meter system.
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Installation, Management and Fee Collection for Prepaid Electricity, Prepaid Water or Prepaid Gas. Used by Landlords, Businesses, Towns, Municipalities, and other utility providers.
