Egypt Powers Up Legal Meter Rollout and Sets Appeal Process for Theft Cases

The Egyptian Ministry of Electricity and Renewable Energy is accelerating the conversion of illegal "code" meters to legally registered meters. Nine distribution companies have already upgraded around 500,000 meters to a tiered‑tariff system, and the ministry aims to complete all conversions by the end of next week. A 24‑hour hotline (121) and several WhatsApp numbers have been publicised to handle citizen complaints and to streamline the paperwork, which can be finalized on the same day the required documents are submitted.

In parallel, the ministry has detailed the procedure for consumers charged with electricity theft. After a theft report is filed by either the internal electricity investigative units or the judicial enforcement officers, the accused may either settle the fine with the utility or file an official appeal within 11 working days. The appeal is reviewed by a neutral grievance committee that can reorder inspections, adjust fines or grant exemptions. Failure to act can lead to referral to the public prosecutor within 60 days, where criminal proceedings may follow.