City Power links Diepkloof hostel outage to unpaid Eskom debt

Residents at the Diepkloof Hostel remain without electricity, following confirmation from Johannesburg City Power that the ongoing outage is linked to an issue on the Eskom network.

The utility stated that the outage, which was first reported earlier this week, sparked protests in the area on Saturday. City Power is currently engaging with stakeholders as part of continued efforts to resolve the situation.

Spokesperson Isaac Mangena says while faults were identified and repaired, power has not been restored because the supply has been isolated due to outstanding debt on the account. Mangena clarified that the financial responsibility lies with the municipal government rather than the residents themselves.

"We found that the hostel bill is basically sitting with Human Settlements. Eskom is supplying electricity, and Human Settlements is supposed to basically pay Eskom, and this is the Human Settlements within the City of Johannesburg. So the MMC of Human Settlements is currently handling this matter."

While the technical issues on the grid have been addressed, the isolation of the supply remains the primary hurdle for restoration. City Power officials are currently working with the Department of Human Settlements to address the arrears and stabilise the service for the affected community.