• Kenya power introduces a new meter reading technology that is designed to improve efficiency, accuracy and speed of meter data collection.
  • The technology, known as Optical Character Recognition (OCR) allows for the scanning of meter displays to facilitate high- accuracy processing of meter readings.

Kenya Power has unveiled a new meter reading technology designed to boost efficiency, accuracy, and speed in data collection.

Through a statement released on Monday, November 24, 2025, the innovation, known as Optical Character Recognition (OCR), enables the scanning of meter displays to facilitate high accuracy processing of readings. By eliminating the need for manual entry of meter numbers and figures, the system promises to reduce human error and streamline billing.

“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. With the OCR system, the meter reader will just be required to scan the meter, and the system will pick the meter readings automatically,” explained Richard Wida, Kenya Power’s Commercial Cycle Manager.

According to Wida, the rollout will save time and minimize errors that often occur when readings are typed manually.

The company plans to deploy the OCR system across all its eight regions following a successful six month pilot in Nairobi that began in March 2025. The initiative targets 1.8 million postpaid meters, which previously relied on manual monthly submissions.

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Beyond efficiency, Kenya Power expects the OCR system to address long standing challenges linked to inaccurate meter readings, a frequent source of customer complaints.

“The OCR technology is a major milestone in Kenya Power’s digital transformation journey. It will complement other technologies that the company has deployed to improve service delivery and strengthen operations,” Wida added.

Kenya Power has also been investing in self service platforms such as the Mypower App and the USSD code *977#, which allow customers to access services directly from their mobile phones. These platforms include a self reading feature enabling postpaid customers to submit their own meter readings for accurate billing.

Together, these initiatives reflect Kenya Power’s broader push toward digital transformation, aimed at enhancing customer experience and modernizing operations.

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