The City of Cape Town has revealed that since introducing paperless invoicing, it saves R2.1 million a year on postage, printing and paper costs.
Customers that opt for paperless invoices are able to view their statements online and will receive them via e-mail and SMS.
In a statement, the city says year-on-year, there has been a 12% increase in customers opting for paperless invoicing.
Out of the 972 200 invoices the city issues every month, 223 794 invoices are sent out via e-mail. All customers with cell numbers also receive an SMS for the amount billed and due after every month's billing period, according to the statement.
"The city is encouraged to see this growth and we know that the majority of our account-holders are conscientious people who are committed to the environment and, at the same time, expect an efficient, technologically advanced and cost-effective administration," explains mayoral committee member of finance Johan van der Merwe.
"The city is certain that the numbers will grow over the coming years. The city has gotten the basics right: our large billing system has a 99% accuracy rate and going paperless is the next step to enhancing the system for all."
Besides the environmental benefits, the city points out, going paperless means invoices are able to reach customers faster, costs are reduced and there is a better cash flow, improved efficiency for its customers and a decreased reliance on the South African Post Office.
The turnaround time for the payments of accounts has also improved, it adds.
"Customers can go paperless by registering for e-services and e-billing online. This will allow them to view their invoices online and also choose to receive invoices by e-mail."
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