SHORTAGES DELAY INFRASTRUCTURE REPLACEMENT IN GAUTENG

Eskom in Gauteng says that it is experiencing challenges with limited stock levels of transformers and mini-substations resulting in the delay of replacing the equipment.

The power utility says that it has in recent months, recorded an exponentially high number of failed mini-substations due to the network overloading as a result of illegal connections, meter bypasses and tampering, unauthorised operations on the electricity network, vandalism and theft of electrical equipment.

Some of the areas that have experienced failure of transformers include Kaalfontein, Ebony Park and Ivory Park.

Although Eskom has relatively stable levels of critical material in stock, it remains faced with high demands for equipment that requires repairs or replacement, making it difficult to meet the demand.

“We are working closely with the manufacturers for a faster turnaround time so that we ensure that equipment is replaced and that supply is restored to our paying customers, those we audited and have subsequently paid their fines, as well as customers converted to the split prepaid metering system.”

“We urge our communities to partner with Eskom and law enforcement agencies in the fight against illegal activities which lead to our network overloading. The illegal activities that have resulted in the extended outages are an inconvenience to paying customers, particularly since the network is shared by multiple customers,” says Mashangu Xivambu, the Senior Manager for Maintenance and Operations in Gauteng.

Eskom takes more than a month to replace failed electricity infrastructure. However, it says that it remains committed to continuously maintain its electricity infrastructure to improve its service offering to its customers.

The community is urged to report illegal connections to Eskom’s Crime Line 0800 11 27 22.