Key Points
- ECB halted action on blocked meters amid a legal case.
- Blocking meters for unpaid bills violates the Electricity Act.
- ECB urges affected customers to negotiate with local authorities.
The Electricity Control Board (ECB) announced it cannot intervene when prepaid electricity meters are blocked due to unpaid municipal bills, citing ongoing legal constraints.
In a statement released Friday, ECB Chief Executive Robert Kahimise highlighted that blocking prepaid meters for outstanding service charges contradicts the Electricity Act of 2007 and other related regulations.
ECB’s stance on meter blockages faces challenge
Kahimise noted that the ECB had previously communicated its stance in a June 27 media statement and a public notice on July 11.
“The ECB informs the public that this ruling has since been legally challenged,” said Kahimise, explaining that the ongoing court proceedings prevent the ECB from taking immediate action against entities practicing this meter-blocking approach.
ECB pauses meter complaint probes amid lawsuit
Until the court reaches a decision, the ECB will not investigate complaints regarding meter blockages tied to unpaid municipal service arrears. Kahimise assured the public that the ECB would continue to provide updates as developments unfold.
“Rest assured, the ECB remains committed to fulfilling its mandate as Namibia’s electricity regulator,” Kahimise added. The ECB also advised customers with blocked meters to approach their local authority for payment arrangements.
