Pretoria: In a bold move to tackle the persistent issue of load reduction, the government has announced a strategic plan to eliminate this challenge within the next 12 to 18 months. The initiative focuses on rolling out smart meters, addressing illegal electricity connections, and upgrading infrastructure to ensure a stable electricity supply.
According to South African Government News Agency, Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr. Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, disclosed that load reduction affects 1.69 million customers in the country, impacting approximately 8.5 million people. Gauteng, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and KwaZulu-Natal are identified as the primary regions experiencing this issue, which is triggered by overloaded local networks during peak demand.
The Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to resolving the electricity deficit by announcing the end of load reduction. The rollout of smart meters is a key component of the plan, allowing for the isolation of non-paying customers without affecting those who adhere to payment obligations. This measure aims to enhance technical agility and ensure fair distribution of electricity.
Currently, 2.1 million customers qualify for free basic electricity, yet only 485,000 receive it. The rollout of smart meters is expected to streamline this process, ensuring that funds allocated by National Treasury reach the intended beneficiaries. The government plans to collaborate with municipalities to establish a comprehensive indigent register, facilitating universal access to electricity and eliminating load reduction.
To further support those eligible for free basic electricity, the Department of Electricity and Energy will review the Free Basic Electricity Framework. The proposed changes include increasing the monthly electricity quota for indigent households from 50 kWh to 200 kWh, reflecting the average consumption of low-income households.
While these interventions promise significant benefits for consumers, the Minister acknowledged potential resistance from communities with illegal connections. Some individuals, including rogue Eskom and municipal employees, profit from these illegal activities and may oppose the government’s efforts.
The government is also addressing the issue of transformer failures, largely attributed to illegal connections. Efforts will be made to regularize electricity access in informal areas, assuming municipal formalization, and provide legally procured electricity to all.
To expedite the implementation of smart meters, the government will collaborate with manufacturers to ensure compliance with Eskom standards. Additionally, the government will focus on refurbishing and maintaining distribution infrastructure, including the installation of solar and battery storage systems, as demonstrated in two villages in Musina, Limpopo.