Vandalism impacts Western Cape power supply network

JOHANNESBURG - Eskom in the Western Cape said that its power supply network continues to be vandalised and overloaded by illegal connections.

The parastatal said that the overloading has resulted in power failures, affecting over 16,000 residents in Bothasig and Kraaifontein.

Technicians from the utility have had to switch off power supply to the entire Wallacedene area, to begin repairs.

This comes as Eskom is vying for yet another tariff increase, the African National Congress (ANC) said that there are plans to make electricity more affordable for South Africans.

This despite the power utility's application to energy regulator, Nersa, for a 36% tariff hike to take effect in 2025.

On Saturday the ANC NEC's subcommittee on economic transformation addressed the issue of high electricity prices during a media briefing in Boksburg.

According to a report released by the South African Reserve Bank last year, Eskom’s electricity tariff increased by over 330% between 2007 and 2017.

In July, the utility raised tariffs by 12.7% and has since applied for an additional 36% increase for 2025.
There have been mounting calls from political parties and civil socitey for Eskom to consider a more reasonable tariff increase.