SA power utility Eskom has become quite familiar with widespread vandalism and theft of its outdoor electricity meter kiosks and mini-substations over the last few years. High-impact areas like Delft, Khayelitsha and the North West continue to be among the hardest-hit, costing Eskom millions. For consumers, the incidents can result in prolonged power outages and the associated inconveniences.
A new innovation from Power Process Systems (PPS) aims to address the problem with its hydraulic metering kiosk. According to PPS, the kiosk is engineered specifically for high-risk municipal environments. Metering kiosks are traditionally manufactured from a range of materials, including polypropylene, fibreglass, polyethylene, mild steel and stainless steel.
However, despite years of design evolution and the introduction of electronic keys, vandal-resistant locks and safe-style kiosk designs, crafty criminals and vandals still find ways to “appropriate” copper busbars and circuit breakers. Additionally, illegal meter bridging continues, and steel doors are commonly removed for scrap value.
The resulting infrastructure damage affects revenue collection and poses public safety risks where live electrical components may become exposed. Developed in collaboration with a metropolitan municipality, the PPS hydraulic metering kiosk has been specifically designed to address these uniquely South African challenges.
Manufactured from 10mm mild steel, the kiosk incorporates a secure hydraulic lifting and locking system that prevents unauthorised access to meters, busbars and circuit breakers. “Municipalities need practical, durable solutions that can withstand increasingly challenging operating environments,” says Ben Roode, Sales Manager at PPS.
“Our hydraulic metering kiosk was developed to improve infrastructure security, enhance public safety and support revenue protection in areas where vandalism and theft remain persistent concerns.”
The design also adds in safety by eliminating exposed or damaged access doors that could see children or members of the public coming face-to-face with live electrical infrastructure. The hydraulic metering kiosks have already been installed in selected high-risk areas, where revenue collection has reportedly improved to approximately 98%.
“The positive feedback from municipalities already using the system demonstrates the value of combining robust engineering with practical operational security,” adds Roode. “By preventing illegal access and reducing infrastructure damage, councils are better positioned to improve service delivery while protecting critical revenue streams.”
