Trusted electricity and energy solution provider transforms Valley View Estate.

Having endured long periods of erratic electricity service supply, problematic billing and irresponsible residents, management at Valley View Estate had reached its tipping point. Energy levels were much like the lights on the Estate… dim and fading fast. That was until Enermatics Energy entered the premises and helped its client take firm control.

Despite its best efforts those running Valley View Estate were frustrated by unreliable electricity service providers, non-payers and a range of problems that impacted on its billing efficiency. These problems included non-collection of arrears, faulty meters that were not being maintained or reported to the HOA, as well as under billing.

These challenges culminated in large deficits in payments made to the City of Tshwane, which then placed residents at risk of being disconnected.

Something had to be done and quickly. A reliable, experienced and resourceful service provider had to be sourced and brought in to assist.

A fresh approach, a new result

Enermatics Energy was established in 2007 and is focused on providing customers in the public and corporate sectors, including end-users, complete control over their energy usage.

The company provides smart metering technology and is a reseller of power to end-users across different market segments.

Enermatics smart meters enable users to accurately monitor electricity usage, power quality, and the associated billing. The smart meter provides intelligence which enables users to optimise and improve their overall energy consumption.

All Enermatics smart meter solutions are SABS and STS approved and is built according to the stringent Eskom NRS049 Smart Meter Standard. Installations are done through certified installers trained and audited by Enermatics.

Using its resources and experience Enermatics provided a solution based on proactive communication, audits on selected home owner meters, stringent collection methods and a comprehensive pre-paid system.

Integration and benefits

The Service Provider immediately differentiated itself as a considerate, highly professional and experienced operator. Staff demonstrated their knowledge and passion from an early stage.

It had used every opportunity to establish an efficient and clear channel of communication between all parties, and effectively served as a buffer to mediate between residents, Valley View management and WHOA directors.

High billing complaints were addressed by audits and Enermatics was willing to bear the expense and assist wherever possible.

Communication was the central thread and was maintained as a priority to ensure that everyone was adequately notified of important developments, including residents and WHOA directors.

Valley View’s Estate migration to a full pre-paid system offered by Enermatics and this move has resulted in no arrears going forward. Enermatics also assisted in the installation of a metering system on an arrangement basis which allows the HOA to pay for the meters over a number of years. This alleviates a significant amount of billing and cost pressure, which frees management up to focus on core service delivery and effective maintenance.

Residents are also forced to comply with a fair, regulated billing system and cannot bypass payment because of its accuracy and reliability.

Challenges

Whilst the results have been obvious and benefits substantial, the process was not without its challenges.

Enermatics Energy experienced billing system difficulties at the initial take on of the Valley View Estate account.

This resulted in delayed invoices and subsequent non-payment from residents. In addition, WHOA also implemented a post-paid top-up system which lead to system abuse and high arrears amounts.

These challenges were addressed and successfully negotiated. The partnership and service delivery has been a great success, with management of Valley View Estate highlighting Enermatics’ dedication, professionalism and their willingness to meet on a regular basis and foster strong communication.

Despite entering a challenging environment that required a steadfast process of change management, effective technology and experience, Enermatics proved it has the capacity and capability to handle the most difficult of circumstances.

Dr. Raj Naidoo, Director at Enermatics Energy says, “We are very proud of our partnership with- and service to our client. This project has proven what can be accomplished when a passionate and experienced service provider engages with a team that is open to change and also committed to the process.”