Eskom Prepaid Token: How to Buy and Load Electricity
An Eskom prepaid electricity token (also called a prepaid voucher or STS token) is a unique 20-digit number that you enter into your prepaid meter to add electricity units. This guide explains exactly how to buy a token, which outlets sell them, and what to do when things go wrong.
What Is a Prepaid Electricity Token?
A prepaid electricity token is a 20-digit code generated by the Standard Transfer Specification (STS) system. It is uniquely encrypted for your specific meter's 20-digit identification number. When you enter the code on your meter keypad, the system decrypts it and adds the corresponding number of kWh units to your balance.
Because the token is cryptographically tied to your meter number, it cannot be used on any other meter and cannot be refunded once loaded. Always verify your 20-digit meter number before purchasing.
Where to Buy an Eskom Prepaid Token
Prepaid tokens can be purchased at hundreds of thousands of points across South Africa. You will always need your 20-digit meter number (also called a meter point reference number or MPRN) to make a purchase.
- Retail stores: Checkers, Shoprite, Pick n Pay, and most large supermarkets
- Bank ATMs: FNB, ABSA, Standard Bank, and Nedbank ATMs
- Internet banking: All major South African banks offer prepaid electricity purchases online
- Banking apps: FNB App, Capitec App, ABSA App, Nedbank App, Standard Bank App
- Eskom online: www.eskom.co.za for Eskom direct supply customers
- MyEskom Customer app: Download on Google Play or Apple App Store
- USSD: Various bank USSD codes for customers without smartphones (e.g., *120*277# for FNB)
- Licensed vendors: Spaza shops, mobile vendors, and community vendors in many areas
Step-by-Step: Buying a Token
- Locate your 20-digit meter number on the front of your prepaid meter.
- Choose your preferred purchase channel (ATM, app, retail store, or online).
- Select the electricity purchase option and enter your 20-digit meter number exactly.
- Double-check the meter number before proceeding — tokens are non-refundable once issued.
- Select the amount in rand that you wish to purchase.
- Confirm the transaction and receive your 20-digit token number on a receipt, SMS, or screen.
- Keep the token receipt until you have successfully loaded it.
If your meter displays a rejection message, do not enter the token again more than once. Contact your municipality or Eskom on 08600 37566 immediately with your receipt details.
Step-by-Step: Loading a Token onto Your Meter
- Press any button on your prepaid meter keypad to wake the display.
- Enter the full 20-digit token number from your receipt.
- Press the accept or enter key (often marked with # or a tick symbol).
- The meter will display a confirmation message and show the units added.
- Your new balance will be displayed. The purchase is complete.
Common Token Problems and Solutions
| Problem | Likely Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Token rejected on first entry | Wrong meter number when purchasing | Contact the vendor with your receipt immediately |
| Token rejected — meter needs key change | Meter encryption key outdated | Visit municipality for a free key change token |
| Token already used | Token was entered previously | Check meter receipt; contact municipality if error |
| Meter does not respond to keypad | Meter hardware fault or display failure | Call Eskom on 08600 37566 to log a fault |
| Units added but display still shows zero | Display fault or unit override | Contact municipality; do not re-enter token |
Meter tampering and electricity theft are criminal offences under Section 22 of the Electricity Regulation Act. Bypassing a prepaid meter to obtain free electricity is illegal and dangerous.
Token Security and Fraud Prevention
Never share your token number with anyone else before loading it, as tokens can only be loaded once. Be cautious of unofficial vendors who offer discounted tokens, as these are often fraudulent or already used.
Always buy tokens from official retailers, recognised bank channels, or the Eskom website. If you receive an SMS claiming to offer free units or a token refund, do not click any links — this is a common scam targeting prepaid electricity customers.