According to a recent article penned by Deloitte power and utilities expert, Scott Smith, one of the biggest trends shaping the future of the utilities industry today is the customer. The accessibility of apps, online platforms, social media and always-on connectivity has made customers increasingly picky in their preferences and educated in their choices. Whether they’re a commercial client looking to improve management and costs or a consumer client looking for that proverbial bang for their buck.
“In our industry, we find our customer base’s need for control and visibility to be key factors in their decision making,” says Carel Scheepers, General Manager: Sales, Citiq Prepaid. “Customers want visibility into how their sub-metering system works, their usage, and their payments. It has become critical, especially in this climate, for people to budget more efficiently and they want a sub-metering solution that respects this need. Electrical contractors are able to advise on the correct hardware solution, based on individual needs – from the consumer to the high-end business park and everyone in between. Citiq Prepaid offers the industry a unique vending system that offers reliable and trustworthy utility visibility and comprehensive cost control.”
We are able to offer customers real-time reporting and utility management data, via our website. Our customers have the unique advantage of creating an online profile on our website – access to real time data provides them with that granular level of control and enables them to preempt and budget.
“We are incredibly focused on providing people with the insights they need to make informed choices,” says Scheepers. “Equally, we are committed to working with electrical contractors, giving them the right information so they know everything they need to know about the system they are installing. Our electrical contractors have visibility into the hardware, the costs, and the installation requirements. This adds immense value to the relationships that the electrical contractor builds with their clients as they can recommend and install a reliable sub-metering solution that ticks all the right boxes. With us, every person in the value chain is supported and made to feel that their needs are being met.” Citiq Prepaid has also invested in two call centres that offer advice, troubleshooting tips and support to resolve issues as swiftly as possible.
Working with Citiq Prepaid, electrical contractors can build a solid market reputation across their various customers and industry segments. Every aspect of the process is transparent, including the fee structure, and every person understands the costs from the outset.
“We recognise how important it is for electrical contractors to cement their reputations in this complex market,” concludes Scheepers. “We have worked in the industry for many years and we understand what both the customer and the contractor need and we’ve worked hard to make sure they both get it when partnering with us.”
This article was published in ECASA
