Residents in Ward 98 experienced repeated electricity outages over the Christmas period, affecting Cornelis Street, parts of Berario — including Canyon Avenue — Fairland and Northcliff. The outages are not isolated incidents but form part of a pattern of recurring disruptions, some of which have continued for six to seven years.

The most recent outage in Canyon Road and Canyon Avenue in Berario has left residents without electricity for five consecutive days.

Ward 98 councillor Beverley Jacobs said the situation points to broader, ongoing challenges rather than isolated technical faults. She said the difficulties experienced by residents reflect issues at senior management level within City Power, including financial management, operational control and long-term infrastructure planning.

Read more: City Power revenue drive targets Hursthill customers

Jacobs said there is growing evidence that City Power is experiencing difficulties in paying contractors, which affects maintenance work, response times and the implementation of longer-term solutions. These challenges are taking place against the backdrop of City Power’s increasingly constrained financial position.

In September 2024, City Power’s overdraft facility stood at approximately R16 billion. That figure has since increased to around R20 billion, a rise of R4 billion over one year. According to Jacobs, this trend indicates that City Power continues to face challenges in stabilising its finances and relies on ongoing financial support from the City.

She said these financial and governance pressures are felt by residents through extended outages, repeated breakdowns, communication challenges and ongoing instability in electricity supply.

Also read: City Power revenue drive targets Hursthill customers

Jacobs confirmed that she has written on numerous occasions to the Executive Mayor, as well as City Power’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Operating Officer, regarding the matter. Her most recent correspondence was dated 27 December 2026.

According to City Power WhatsApp channel, the team is currently on site in Canyon Avenue in Berario trenching. “Repairs will resume as soon as the faulty cable is exposed. Affected customers will be updated on developments.”

City Power acknowledged the publications media query and the above-mentioned and the article will be updated once a response is received.

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