27-05-2025
Unused solar geysers not owned by municipality
The JB Marks municipality, responded to the Herald's enquiries regarding the unused solar geysers that are being stored in a community hall.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) sent a press release on the matter last week. The party has called on the Executive Mayor and Municipal Manager to conduct an urgent investigation and report to Council on how solar water-heater units meant for low-income households have remained in storage for years.
Read the previous article here:
In response the municipality said that the solar geysers in question were installed under the National Solar Water Heater Programme, which was managed and owned by the National Department of Mineral Resources and Energy
(DMRE).
'The JB Marks Local Municipality wishes to emphasize that, it is not the implementing agent
and holds no direct responsibility over the assets or execution of the project,' Jeanette Tshite, municipal spokesperson said.
According to her, the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy had previously appointed service providers to carry
out the project. This contract has since expired.
'A new service provider was appointed by the Department but was unable to commence work due to theft of critical materials from the site. As reported to the Municipality, the Department has since reported the matter to the South African Police Service and opened two criminal cases in connection with the stolen materials at Sarafina Community
Hall. Unfortunately, there has been no significant progress in these investigations, which has led to
delays and a suspension of the project,' Tshite said.
Several meetings have been convened between the Municipal Manager and DMRE Officials. These engagements were aimed at encouraging progress in resolving outstanding issues, particularly the recovery or replacement of stolen materials.
'The JB Marks Local Municipality understands frustration of community members and share their desire to see the project completed. The Municipality remains committed to engaging with relevant national departments to support initiatives that improve the quality of life of our residents. Nevertheless, we reiterate that all decisions and further actions lie with the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy. Members of community and stakeholders who seek further information about solar geysers, project implementation, or future plans are encouraged to contact the Department of Mineral Resources and
Energy directly, as the Municipality does not hold the mandate for this program,' Tshite noted.
The Herald contacted the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy, and will include their response once it is received.
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