ZETDC to Enforce Smart Prepaid Billing Amid $5.7 Billion Debt Crisis
The Zimbabwe Miners Federation (ZMF) has informed its members that the Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC) will switch large and medium power users to a smart prepaid billing system starting October 1, 2024.
By Rudairo Mapuranga
In a recent statement, ZMF CEO Wellington Takavarasha disclosed that ZETDC is owed ZW$ 5.7 billion across various customer segments, creating severe cash flow problems and threatening national energy security.
Takavarasha noted that ZETDC requires all customers to clear their arrears and prepay their bills by September 30, 2024. More details on the new system will be provided by the utility. Customers should contact their local ZETDC account managers for clarification.
“On September 4, 2024, the ZMF Secretariat was invited by ZETDC for an urgent update on the transition to the smart prepaid billing system,” Takavarasha said. Key points discussed were:
- ZETDC is owed approximately ZW $5.7 billion by customers across all segments.
- This debt has severely impacted operations, resulting in cash flow constraints that threaten service delivery and energy security.
- The migration to the smart prepaid billing system begins on October 1, 2024. Customers must clear arrears and prepay by September 30, 2024.
- Further implementation details will be communicated, and customers are encouraged to contact their local ZETDC account managers.
Takavarasha emphasized the urgency for customers to prepare for the transition and the serious impact of the debt crisis on energy security.