The City of Ekurhuleni (CoE) has invested R47m to refurbish two electricity substations in Thembisa, a move expected to improve supply reliability for more than 9 240 households.

Executive Mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza and his delegation officially unveiled the refurbished Substations E and AA, upgraded with modern equipment and advanced technology to strengthen the city’s electricity infrastructure.

The upgrades replace ageing equipment that had become increasingly inadequate to meet the area’s electricity demands.

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The new technology will enable engineers to identify faults more efficiently, while additional backup systems are expected to reduce repair times and limit the impact of supply interruptions.

The refurbishment of Substation E cost R27m and is expected to benefit more than 5 100 households. It will also support critical healthcare facilities, including Thembisa Hospital and Zamokuhle Hospital.

Substation AA received a R20m upgrade and is expected to benefit a further 4 140 households. Combined, the two projects represent a R47m investment in electricity infrastructure serving more than 9 240 households in Thembisa.

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Addressing those gathered at the unveiling, Xhakaza said the projects marked an important milestone in the city’s efforts to improve electricity supply and strengthen municipal infrastructure.

“Today, we gather to mark an important milestone in our commitment to improving electricity supply and strengthening municipal infrastructure in Thembisa.

“Electricity is essential to the daily lives of our people. It supports our households, enables businesses to operate, allows learners to study and ensures that critical institutions, including our hospitals, can provide essential services.

“As Thembisa continues to grow, so does the electricity demand. We must therefore ensure that our infrastructure keeps pace with population growth and the increasing needs of our communities. We cannot build a growing city on infrastructure that cannot meet its demands.

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“Increasing capacity and refurbishing our substations is essential to securing a reliable electricity supply, reducing disruptions and supporting future development,” he said.

Xhakaza added that the projects represented an investment in the community’s long-term development and economic prospects.

“These are not merely infrastructure projects. They are investments in the dignity of our residents, the sustainability of our communities and the economic future of our city.

“Reliable electricity is also a foundation for economic growth. Our small businesses, manufacturers and other enterprises need a stable supply to operate, protect their equipment, create jobs and contribute to the local economy,” he said.

He said the city remained committed to strengthening its electricity network through infrastructure investment, proper maintenance and forward-looking planning.

Xhakaza also called on residents to protect public infrastructure against cable theft, vandalism and illegal connections, warning that these activities compromise electricity supply and put lives at risk.

Following the unveiling, the mayor toured the upgraded facilities to learn more about the new infrastructure and its capabilities, including the technology that helps engineers identify electricity faults affecting surrounding communities.