Eskom has cautioned homeowners to be aware of companies offering free energy assessments on behalf of the power utility.<\/p>\n
This comes on the back of reports that a supplier of solar water heaters has been posing as an Eskom agent conducting energy assessments for homeowners.<\/p>
The so-called agent’s modus operandi is to target pensioners by telephone.<\/p>\n
People who agree to a consultation and allow the company’s sales representatives into their homes are allegedly treated aggressively and given a bogus evaluation of their household’s energy usage.<\/p>
The home’s geyser consumption is usually highlighted as the critical cause of high energy consumption, and people are subsequently coerced into purchasing a solar water heater from the company.<\/p>\n
Andrew Etzinger, Eskom’s senior general manager for integrated demand management, confirmed that Eskom has not commissioned any suppliers to conduct free energy assessments and, therefore, advises homeowners against letting anyone into their homes.<\/p>\n
Etzinger said: “When Eskom does implement residential energy savings interventions we ensure that residents are notified beforehand and run awareness campaigns in the local media.<\/p>\n
“Homeowners are also advised against purchasing energy saving technologies from suppliers claiming that they have been tested and endorsed by Eskom.<\/p>\n
“You are under no obligation to allow anyone into your home to conduct energy assessments or sell you energy saving products.<\/p>\n
“If you are approached by sales personnel claiming that a technology or device has been endorsed by Eskom, be sceptical.<\/p>\n
“Always purchase energy saving technologies from a reputable supplier and look for the SABS mark.<\/p>\n
Consumers are encouraged to call Eskom’s Solar Help Desk on 011 800-4744 or visit www.eskom.co.za\/idm or http:\/\/bit.ly\/accreditedsolarsuppliers for a list of accredited solar water heating system suppliers.<\/p>\n