Kenya Power Introduces OCR Technology to Improve Meter Reading Accuracy for 1.8 Million Customers

Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) has rolled out a new Optical Character Recognition (OCR) system aimed at improving efficiency and accuracy in electricity meter reading. The technology allows meters to be scanned directly, eliminating the need for manual entry of readings.

“The OCR system allows our teams to scan meter displays directly, instead of manually typing meter numbers and readings. This improves the accuracy and efficiency of billing, helping ensure customers receive correct bills,” the company stated.

The utility plans to switch 1.8 million postpaid meters to the new OCR-based model. These meters are primarily those that previously required manual reading. KPLC hopes the change will reduce errors and speed up billing processes across the country.

KPLC has asked customers to ensure their meters are accessible. “Customers are therefore kindly requested to allow our staff access to meters within their premises, including opening meter boxes where necessary. For your safety, all Kenya Power staff visiting customer premises will carry official identification cards with their staff number and national ID details,” the notice read. Customers can also verify employees via the *977# “Jua for Sure” service.

The system has already undergone a six-month pilot in Nairobi, beginning March 2025. The pilot demonstrated the technology’s reliability and effectiveness, encouraging nationwide rollout. Commercial Cycle Manager Richard Wida highlighted the benefits: “The automatic scanning will significantly reduce the amount of time spent on each meter and eliminate errors that frequently occur when readings are manually entered.”

KPLC says the OCR technology is part of a broader digital transformation strategy. It aims to streamline operations, improve the customer experience, and minimize billing complaints—a common issue in Kenya’s power sector.

Electricity demand in Kenya continues to grow. In July 2025, nationwide power use reached a record peak of 2,362 megawatts, surpassing the previous February record. KPLC Managing Director Joseph Siror attributed the increase to expanded access to electricity and rising dependence on grid power.

As the OCR system is deployed across all eight regions, the company expects more efficient data collection, fewer billing disputes, and quicker service delivery. The new technology represents a major step in Kenya Power’s effort to modernize and enhance customer satisfaction in an increasingly electricity-dependent country.