MMC blames illegal connections for power outage in Sosh
The power failures experienced on the two 11kV overhead lines from the IA 33/11kV substation to Tswaing Crater are primarily caused by illegal connections in the Marikana and Jabulani informal settlements.
The frequent power failures in Soshanguve to Winterveldt are caused by overloading and the illegal connections in informal settlements, the metro said.
“The failures of the two 11kV overhead lines from the IA 33/11kV substation to Tswaing Crater are primarily caused by illegal connections in the Marikana and Jabulani informal settlements,” said MMC for utilities and regional operations Themba Fosi.
Fosi said the overloading has been exacerbated by a dysfunctional protection scheme, particularly with the breaker at the IA substation failing to trip as intended.
Consequently, the transformers on the 33kV network tripped resulting in widespread power outages in these areas.
“Our team conducted a thorough assessment of the damage and found the lines to be burnt and brittle. This damage necessitates extensive rebuilding from the IA substation up to Block KK in Soutpan Road.”
STATEMENT: City of Tshwane addresses power failures in Soshanguve and surrounding areas. @CityTshwane pic.twitter.com/2O2j2gyBcf
— Mayor Cilliers Brink (@tshwane_mayor) February 29, 2024
He said a team is installing an auto recloser switch as a temporary measure to mitigate future failures.
“Taking material shortages into account, we have decommissioned one of the 11kV lines in Block W and Akasia to utilise spare parts to reconstruct the overhead lines.”
Fosi said while these measures will assist in restoring power to the affected areas, it is important to note that they do not directly solve the underlying issues of illegal connections and malfunctioning breakers.
The city remains committed to working closely with authorities, councillors and communities to address these issues comprehensively.
“We understand the inconvenience caused by these disruptions and assure residents that we are making every effort to expedite the restoration process and enhance the reliability of the electricity supply in the affected areas.”
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