KPLC Unveils New OCR Meter Reading System to Curb Billing Errors
The rollout follows a six-month pilot conducted in Nairobi beginning March 2025 and targets all eight KPLC regions nationwide
The Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) has launched a new Optical Character Recognition (OCR) meter reading system aimed at boosting efficiency and eliminating human error in electricity billing
The technology, which replaces manual entry of meter numbers and readings, allows meter readers to scan meter displays for automatic and highly accurate data capture
“Technology is a major driver of our business, and in terms of billing, specifically meter reading, we have been looking at how to make it better and more accurate,” said Richard Wida, Kenya Power’s Commercial Cycle Manager
“With the OCR system, the meter reader will just be required to scan the meter, and the system will pick the meter readings automatically. This will save time and eliminate human error”
The rollout follows a six-month pilot conducted in Nairobi beginning March 2025 and targets all eight KPLC regions nationwide
A total of 1.8 million postpaid meters those that require monthly manual readings will be integrated into the new system
KPLC says the shift to OCR is expected to reduce billing anomalies and improve customer experience as part of the company’s broader digital transformation agenda
The utility already relies on several digital tools, including the Mypower App and USSD code *977#, which allow customers to access services and submit self-readings for accurate billing
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Wida noted that future upgrades will enable customers to use OCR within these self-service platforms for even greater convenience
Additionally, KPLC continues to expand its smart metering programme for large power, SMEs, and selected domestic users. These smart meters support two-way communication, enabling remote reading and connection management
The company says the combined digital initiatives mark a significant step toward improving service delivery, strengthening operations, and enhancing transparency in billing
Writer : Mweru Mbugua
