ESKOM DISCONNECTS ILLEGAL CONNECTIONS

Eskom has launched an “energy management campaign to intensify efforts to address the risk associated with repeated equipment failure and network overloading which cause transformer and mini substation explosions in high density areas.”

Ivory Park, Kaalfontein and Ebony Park are such areas with transformers that have failed during the winter, high electricity demand time.

The Power Utility has advised that it will conduct audits, issue fines and disconnect illegal connections before the electricity is restored. Eskom removed illegal connections and bypassed meters in Ivory Park. Failed equipment like transformers and mini substations will only be replaced by the Power Utility once the due process is completed.

A Joint Electrical Connections Operation was conducted today in collaboration with JMPD, SAPS and Red Ants. Another focus area of the campaign is to highlight the importance of ensuring continuity of electricity supply to everyone. In addition, the campaign seeks to ensure that electricity is paid for.

At the time of publishing Eskom was implementing load reduction in high KAE and surrounding areas. The electricity is expected to return at 22:00. Load reduction is implemented to avoid network overloading and transformer failure.

Communities are encouraged to report meter bypasses, illegal connections and vandalism of the electricity infrastructure on the Eskom Crime Line: 0800 11 27 22.