Ekurhuleni plans to expand electricity access and boost renewables
According to the municipality's Energy Department, which is responsible for electricity reticulation across the city, the strategy aims to provide services that are effective, efficient, and equitable, while aligning with constitutional obligations.
The department reports that it is working to improve accessibility, particularly in informal settlements, through initiatives such as the electrification of re-blocked communities and the installation of solar-powered lighting units in selected areas.
ALSO READ: Ekurhuleni drops reconnection fee for stolen electricity cables
Renewable energy and service delivery
As part of broader efforts to support South Africa's transition to cleaner energy sources, Ekurhuleni's plan includes adopting renewable energy solutions where feasible.
The municipality says these efforts are intended to reduce environmental impact while maintaining service delivery to residents.
The department states that its operations are informed by the Batho Pele principles, which prioritise service delivery with a focus on community needs.
Infrastructure and operational challenges
The city's strategy also includes maintenance of existing infrastructure, addressing illegal electricity connections, and ensuring compliance with safety standards.
ALSO READ: What Ekurhuleni residents need to know about new electricity tariffs
Efforts to improve service delivery, according to the department, include strengthening governance practices and promoting a safe working environment for staff.
The municipality has acknowledged the need to prevent power losses and infrastructure strain caused by illegal connections, particularly in high-demand areas.
Energy as a development enabler
In a recent statement, the Energy Department described electricity as a key enabler of social and economic development and indicated that energy access improvements form part of broader municipal goals linked to inclusive urban growth.
It also indicated that plans would continue to emphasise the integration of green technologies, infrastructure investment, and expanded access to electricity for unserviced communities.
The municipality did not provide timelines or specific budget allocations for these initiatives.
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Ekurhuleni residents get relief from cable replacement fees
Ekurhuleni residents no longer have to pay R1 500 (excluding VAT) to get their stolen electricity cables replaced by the city. However, the city announced on July 22 that this benefit comes with terms and conditions. The free replacement of stolen service connections only applies to residential customers. Businesses are excluded and will be charged based on quotations. To qualify for the free service, affected customers must: • Report the stolen cable to the Energy Department depot • Provide a reference number from the call centre • Submit a police statement and case number confirming the theft 'The customer's municipal account must not be in arrears. If the account is in arrears, the customer will be required to settle the outstanding amount or provide proof of arrangements made with the Finance Department before a job card is created,' the CoE stated. Residents using prepaid meters must provide their electricity purchase records. However, replacement will not be done for bypassed prepaid meters until a back-billing report has been compiled and the customer has paid the prescribed fees and tariffs related to the bypass. ALSO CHECK: Ekurhuleni's Road Blitz fixes thousands of potholes and road signs The CoE stressed that aside from possible fees for accounts in arrears or meter tampering, there is no charge for replacing the stolen service connection cable. Replacement will be done to the point of supply as determined by the city. If paving or landscaping installed by the owner must be removed to install the new cable, the owner will be responsible for restoring the area. 'The municipality shall not be liable for any loss or damage, direct or consequential, including loss of production, profit, or damage to equipment or infrastructure caused by entering the customer's premises to replace the stolen cable,' the CoE said. An affidavit releasing the municipality from liability must be obtained from the customer before any replacement work begins. The council-approved policy came into effect on July 1.
