Statement by Yongama Zigebe, Councillor in the City of Johannesburg for the United Democratic Movement

The residents of the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality are facing severe challenges due to the recent implementation of electricity load reduction, which is critically affecting the economic hub of South Africa. Despite the Minister of Electricity’s recent celebration of 120 days without load shedding, residents and businesses in Johannesburg continue to suffer under what can be termed “load shedding version 2.0.”

Load reduction has been particularly devastating for small businesses, especially those operating in predominantly black communities such as townships. Areas like Alexandra, Soweto, Ivory Park, Fourways, Cosmo City, Diepsloot, Randburg and many other areas of Jo’burg are bearing the brunt of these power interruptions. The economic impact is profound as these areas house numerous small businesses that rely heavily on consistent electricity supply. Without it, they face operational disruptions, loss of income, and potential closure, further exacerbating unemployment and economic instability in these vulnerable communities.

It is alarming that City Power has resorted to load reduction despite Eskom’s ability to supply electricity without load shedding. This paradox raises serious questions about the efficiency and management of our power infrastructure. The residents of Johannesburg could not partake in the national celebration of 120 days without load shedding due to the ongoing load reduction.

This situation is further aggravated by the introduction of a R200 supercharge in the City of Johannesburg. It is unacceptable to impose additional financial burdens on residents who are already struggling with unreliable power supply. Electricity is a fundamental human right, essential for the well-being and development of our communities, and it must be provided consistently and without such disruptions.

We cannot continue to subject our people to these hardships. The government and its entities must act responsibly and transparently, ensuring that all residents have access to reliable electricity without facing arbitrary and confusing terminologies for ongoing issues.

To resolve this issue, the following measures must be implemented immediately:
1. Improve Infrastructure: Invest in upgrading and maintaining the power distribution infrastructure to prevent technical losses and ensure reliable electricity supply.
2. Increase Transparency: City Power and Eskom must provide clear and transparent communication about the causes of load reduction and the steps being taken to mitigate it.
3. Promote Energy Efficiency: Encourage businesses and residents to adopt energy-efficient practices and technologies to reduce overall demand on the grid.
4. Develop Alternative Energy Sources: Invest in renewable energy sources and decentralised power generation solutions to diversify the energy supply and reduce dependence on a single source.
5. Collaboration and Coordination: Improve coordination between City Power, Eskom, and other stakeholders to ensure a unified approach to addressing the power supply challenges.

The people of the City of Johannesburg must demand immediate action to resolve the load reduction problem and to ensure that all communities can enjoy stable and reliable electricity. It is crucial for the economic health of our city and the well-being of our residents.