Topping Up Prepaid Electricity In Brunei: A Quick Guide

In Brunei, electricity tariffs are divided into four tiers, with the first tier ranging from 0001 kWh to 0600 kWh, charged at a rate of B$0.01 cents per kWh. As such, topping up $6 at the beginning of the month is considered a good deal by many, as it ensures that one stays within the first tier of electricity tariffs. To top up prepaid electricity in Brunei, one can use the DES PowerKad, a prepaid card that can be purchased at designated outlets. The card can be used to top up one's meter credit by sending an SMS with the meter number and the 16-digit PIN to a designated number.

Top-up methods: SMS or hotline

To top up your prepaid electricity meter in Brunei, you can use the DES PowerKad prepaid card. This card is available for physical collection and can be purchased in denominations of $50.

To top up using the DES PowerKad, follow these steps:

• Send an SMS with your meter number followed by an asterisk (*) and the 16-digit PIN number on the card to 8998144 (for DSTCom) or 8160160 (for B-Mobile).
• You will receive an SMS containing a 20-digit token.
• Use the 20-digit token to top up your meter credit.

If you encounter any problems with the PowerKad, you can call the DES PowerKad Hotline at 8859898 between 9 AM and 8 PM. Alternatively, for special requests or issues with your order, you can contact the QqeStore Customer Service Hotline at 2238826.

Tariff structure: kWh blocks and rates

The electricity tariff structure in Brunei is divided into four blocks/tiers, with rates increasing as the amount of electricity consumed moves into a higher block.

The first block/tier is for electricity consumption ranging from 1 kWh to 600 kWh and is charged at a rate of $0.01 per kWh. This means that if you consume 600 kWh or less, you will be charged $6, which is considered the best deal.

The second block/tier is for consumption between 601 kWh and 2000 kWh, and the rate increases to $0.08 per kWh.

The third block/tier covers consumption from 2001 kWh to 4000 kWh, with a rate of $0.10 per kWh.

Finally, the fourth block/tier is for consumption above 4001 kWh, and the rate increases to $0.12 per kWh.

It is important to note that these rates are applicable for the first top-up of the month, regardless of when it occurs. So, if you usually spend $30 per month on electricity, you don't need to make a $6 top-up first and then continue with additional top-ups. You can just top up $30 straight away and still get the benefit of the $6 deal.

However, if you are uncertain of your average monthly consumption, it is recommended to start with a $6 top-up to take advantage of the lower rate for the first block/tier.

USMS: unified smart metering system

The Berakas Power Company (BPC) in Brunei is currently undertaking a national Unified Smart Meter System (USMS) project. This involves replacing all existing Conlog meters with USMS meters, which combine electricity and water metering capabilities into a single module. The new system promises enhanced functionality and improved efficiency for customers to manage their utility consumption.

The USMS platform offers a range of benefits to BPC customers. Firstly, it allows for the convenient management of both electricity and water consumption through a single, integrated system. This eliminates the need for separate meters and billing systems for electricity and water, streamlining the process for customers. Secondly, the USMS system provides improved efficiency in utility management. Customers can easily track their consumption, make informed decisions about their usage, and potentially identify areas where they can conserve resources and save costs.

The transition to USMS is strategically planned to ensure a smooth and seamless experience for BPC customers. The company aims to complete the migration from the Conlog metering system to USMS by the end of 2023. This timeline is important because the Conlog meters will no longer be supported in 2024, and customers with those meters will be unable to purchase electricity through existing online or prepaid scratch card methods. Therefore, it is essential for customers to make the switch to USMS to avoid any disruption in their electricity and water services.

To top up prepaid electricity in Brunei, customers can utilise the DES PowerKad, a prepaid card specifically for the Department of Electrical Services (DES) Prepaid Meter. The card is available for physical collection and can be purchased in denominations of $50. The top-up process involves three simple steps: sending an SMS with the meter number and the 16-digit PIN, receiving an SMS with a 20-digit token, and using that token to top up the meter credit. This convenient method ensures that customers can easily manage their electricity usage and maintain their power supply without interruption.

Prepaid electricity recharge PIN

Prepaid electricity in Brunei works on a tiered pricing structure, with the first block/tier being from 1kWh to 600kWh, costing $0.01 per kWh. This means that if you top up $6, you will get 600 kWh of electricity at this rate. The next tiers are priced at $0.08, $0.10, and $0.12 per kWh respectively.

To get the best deal on your electricity credit, it is recommended to top up at least $6 at the beginning of each month to take advantage of the lower rate in the first tier. However, it is important to note that you can top up at any time during the month and still get the $6 deal, as long as it is your first top-up for that month.

There are various ways to recharge your prepaid electricity meter, including using a mobile bank app, an online payment platform, or purchasing a UniPIN voucher from a vendor. The process may vary depending on your electricity distribution company and payment method.

If you are using a mobile bank app, simply open the app, select the 'Utility Bills' or 'Prepaid Recharge' option, choose your electricity distribution company, enter your meter number and the amount you wish to pay. Confirm your payment using a one-time password (OTP) sent to your phone, and you will receive your electricity unit code.

With an online payment platform, such as VTU.ng, you will need to create an account, select your electricity distribution company, enter your meter number and type, specify the amount you wish to pay, and then proceed to the checkout page. After reviewing your information, you can make the payment, and you will receive your electricity token code.

For UniPIN, you purchase a voucher from a vendor and then redeem it at your convenience using your cell phone. Follow the instructions on the UniPIN voucher to send a USSD request, and you will receive a 20-digit prepaid electricity token number via SMS, which you can then enter into your prepaid meter at home.

Remember to always use a secure Internet connection when making online transactions to protect your personal information.

Best 'deal': minimising costs

To get the best deal and minimise costs for prepaid electricity in Brunei, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, understand the tiered tariff structure. The cost of electricity in Brunei is structured into four tiers, with the price per kWh increasing as your consumption moves into higher tiers.

The first tier is from 0001 kWh to 0600 kWh and is charged at B$ 0.01 cents per kWh. This means that if you consume 600 kWh or less, you will be charged $6, which is considered the best deal.

To minimise costs, aim to keep your electricity consumption within this first tier. This may involve monitoring your daily and monthly usage, especially if you are new to tracking your electricity usage. You can do this by using the DES Tariff Calculator or by keeping a close eye on your meter.

Additionally, it is important to note that the tier pricing resets every month. So, regardless of when you top up during the month, as long as your consumption stays within the first tier, you will be charged at the lowest rate.

If you are unsure of your average monthly consumption, it is recommended to start by topping up $6 at the beginning of the month. This way, you can ensure you get the best deal, and if 600 kWh is sufficient for your needs, you won't need to top up again that month.

However, if you find that you consistently require more than 600 kWh, you can still minimise costs by ensuring your first top-up of the month is at least $6. This will give you access to the lowest rate for the first 600 kWh, and any additional consumption will be charged at the higher tiers.

By understanding the tariff structure and monitoring your usage, you can make informed decisions about your electricity consumption and top-up amounts, ultimately minimising your costs for prepaid electricity in Brunei.

Frequently asked questions