Design and development of an informatiom system for electricity payment, case study : Umeme Yaka meters

Abstract

Yaka metering system includes a Customer interface unit (CIU) that is easily accessible on the user premises. Upon any payment, a 20-digit token MUST be entered to have units loaded into the meter. The process of entering a 20-digit token number is a challenge to users as it requires their physical presence to enter the 20-digits. Where one requires remote entry of the tokens to activate the units bought, it is currently impossible as tokens require physical presence at the CIU. To bring convenience to the users, we have developed a GSM based a Yaka-meter activation system that doesn’t require user to input the 20-digit token number on CIUs. The meter ensures that upon any payment, the 20-digit token is automatically loaded into the meter through a mobile platform.