Information

The Token Identifier (TID) is a unique number generated for each token inserted into a meter, ensuring each token can only be used once. When a TID counter experiences a rollover, it means the counter is reset or refreshed, causing new tokens to duplicate the numbers of old tokens. Active since January 1, 1993, the TID counter is projected to ‘run out of numbers’ and reset to zero on November 24. If a token is generated on that date, it will duplicate the number generated on January 1, 1993, and the meter will recognise this duplication and interpret the token as already used, leading to its automatic rejection. During a recent Rampai Pagi programme, the Department of Electrical Services (DES) and the Department of Water Services reassured everyone there have been no changes in electricity and water tariffs before or after the introduction of the Unified Smart Metering System (USMS) in October 2022. The current rates for electricity and water remain unchanged. They also emphasised the national programme to replace old meters with USMS smart meters is not just for show or to inconvenience people. This replacement is essential to handle the TID Rollover transition. Without this update, electricity supply could be disrupted, leading to power cuts for the public. To explain the TID issue, the JPE gave an example similar to queue numbers at service counters. Imagine a counter that serves only 100 customers a day, giving out numbers from one to 100. If you’re the 101st customer, you can’t get a number and have to come back the next day. The next day, the counter gives out the same numbers from one to 100 again. So, if yesterday’s last number was 100, today’s last number will also be 100. This repetition is similar to what happens with TID rollover. As the TID rollover is expected to happen on November 24, it will affect users of prepaid meters worldwide that follow the Standard Transfer Specification (STS). After this date, tokens generated will have duplication issues and won’t be accepted by the meters. In Brunei Darussalam, the DES is aware of the TID rollover and has already started taking steps to ensure users can still enter their tokens and continue receiving electricity. One of the main solutions is replacing the old STAR, INHE and PLESSEY prepaid meters with the new USMS. To address the rollover issue, DES has divided the process into two parts. ![](https://media.everythingbrunei.com/public/DO3VTUJ5lSrYibRaxzmBG-1GKoqtXxQOlGn_o68Q0Cz.jpeg) PHOTO: FREEPIK **INSTALLATION OF PREPAID METERS** The first step being made by DES is ensuring that all prepaid meters installed nationwide comply with the TID rollover and can be used after November 24 as some older meters are not compliant and need to be replaced with USMS smart meters because their software, known as firmware, is outdated – much like old phones or laptops that can’t run new apps and need replacing. JPE has also identified some meters that are TID rollover compliant but require a software update using a special tool. Although these meters will eventually be replaced with USMS meters, the immediate focus is on updating their software. DES officials are currently working on this, and contractors will soon join to speed up the process. The department urges the public to cooperate with officials and contractors during meter inspections and updates, which take only five to 10 minutes. If a meter cannot be updated, DES will replace it with a USMS smart meter through DST Network Sdn Bhd (DSTN), the government-appointed contractor for the smart meter replacement programme. In November, prepaid meter users (excluding those with USMS smart meters) will need to follow a new process. DES will generate three 20-digit tokens for all users. The first two tokens, known as key change tokens, will reset the meter. After the meter is reset, users can top it up using the third 20-digit token. **BENEFITS OF THE USMS SYSTEM** DSTN explained the USMS integrates electricity and water supply services into one log-in system, displaying electricity and water accounts separately. This system promotes more efficient and careful use of utilities and enhances the overall user experience. Unlike the old token-based system, USMS will not be affected by the TID rollover in November 2024. With USMS, customers can instantly check their credit balance, perform top-ups, and view their top-up history and usage patterns through the USMS app. Customers will receive SMS notifications when their credit balance drops to BND5 to avoid service disruptions. USMS uses the existing electricity tariff, with no changes to the rates, ensuring that bills are based on actual real-time consumption of electricity and water. **FACTORS AFFECTING ELECTRICITY AND WATER USAGE** Some users of the old post-paid meters could use electricity and water even with late payments. In contrast, USMS users must top up credits based on actual usage, promoting timely payments. Sometimes, users might forget to top up their water smart meter for 48 hours, leaving the credit empty. In such cases, credit will automatically transfer from the electric smart meter to the water smart meter to prevent water supply interruptions. Leaks or burst pipes can also increase water consumption. Users can monitor their usage through the USMS app and review detailed usage reports. The smart water meter will display the word “leak” if there’s a problem. For further assistance or repairs, users can contact the Department of Water Services for advice and a list of qualified professionals. **HANDLING ARREARS WITH THE USMS SYSTEM** For customers with outstanding arrears using the USMS system, credit for instalment payments will be automatically deducted with the first top-up each month. For example, if a customer owes BND20 monthly, they must top up more than BND20. To address electricity bill backlogs, the DES offers instalment plans, making it easier to pay off debts gradually. Customers with arrears can still request a USMS smart meter replacement. Users should monitor their electricity and water usage via the USMS app or website (usms.com.bn) and report any discrepancies to Darussalam Line at 123 or USMS line at 7399889/7399899. Illegally modifying meters can disrupt USMS smart meters and supply, leading to fines up to BND50,000 or three years in prison under the Electricity Act Chapter 71, while spreading false information can result in up to three years in prison or a BND3,000 fine under the Public Order Act. – James Kon

Segala Brunei→banar banar semua ada bah!⤴︎

Borneo Bulletin

Information

Borneo Bulletin Article

↳ Posted By

Borneo Bulletin

Borneo Bulletin

Urang macam awda pun kan meliat ani bah! ⤵︎

Power Outage Alert: Brunei Urges Smart Meter Swap

Smart Meter Tampering Blamed for High Bills

Brunei Urges Prepaid Meter Swap to Avoid Power Outages

Prepaid Meter Reset Needed Before Token Rollover

Brunei's Smart Metering System: Addressing Concerns

Paper Tissue