The Department of Electrical Services, DES and Department of Water Services, DWS of the Public Works Department, and DST Network Sendirian Berhad, DST have been informed on the issues raised by the public pertaining to the plan of replacing prepaid meters to the Unified Smart Metering System, USMS that went viral in social media and WhatsApp.

The goal of changing to USMS is to support the Token Identifier TID Rollover transition process. 3 prepaid meter brands namely STAR, INHE and PLESSEY will not be able to accept the electricity token, and will lead to power cut. The TID Rollover is a global issue that affects prepaid meters, and its standards have been certified by the Standard Transfer Specification Association throughout the world, and is expected to happen on the 24th of November 2024. Hence, changing to USMS is one of the major mitigation measures to ensure that power supply is not affected during the TID Rollover process.

The DES, DWS and DST took note of the public's concern and complaint regarding the USMS' electricity usage charges. According to investigation, most complaints received from USMS customers are: meter tampering and electrical diversion; lack of awareness on the use of water and electricity; lack of understanding on electricity tariff; and leaving the smart meter empty for 48 hours, leading to automatic credit transfer from electricity meter to water meter; and others. Touching on water and electricity arrears, the government through the DES and DWS will continue to provide instalment payment option to the public to settle the arrears in stages.

The public is reminded that meter tampering may result in the operational uncertainty of USMS, and is an offence under the Electricity Act, Chapter 71 which can lead to a fine not exceeding 50 thousand dollars or 3 months imprisonment or both. USMS customers are also reminded to always monitor their electricity and water usage via USMS application or usms.com.bn.

If there is a difference from previous usage, customers are advised to contact Talian Darussalam 123 or USMS line at 739 9889 or 739 9899 during office hours so that the DES, DWS and DST can make further inspections.

Source:
RTB NEWS

by RTB NEWS

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