East electricity infrastructure set to soon receive upgrades
MMC for Utility Service Frans Boshielo revealed that the metro has embarked on upgrades on several electricity infrastructure across the city to reduce service interruptions for residents and businesses.
Areas such as Silverton, Waltloo, and Koedoespoort will probably show some stability soon once they are fully connected to the N4 powerline.
This is according to the metro, which has stated that it is making progressive steps to reduce power outages across the city by prioritising upgrades and stabilisation of its electricity infrastructure.
MMC for Utility Services, Frans Boshielo, emphasised that reliable electricity supply is at the top of the metro’s agenda.
“Over the past year, the energy and electricity business unit has worked tirelessly to strengthen previously problematic networks,” said Boshielo.
He said the metro aims to ensure residents and industries experience fewer electricity interruptions and that the city’s infrastructure can meet the growing demands of the population.
He said during the 2024/25 financial year, several areas that historically suffered from frequent outages have seen substantial improvements.
He said Region 6 also benefited from major upgrades, including the refurbishment of Nellmapius and Eesterust substations and the reinstatement of the Waltloo/Njala powerline to its full capacity of 300 MVA.
According to Boshielo, industrial areas in Silverton, Waltloo, and Koedoespoort will benefit once fully connected to the N4 powerline.
“Earlier this year, the Wapadrand and Mooikloof substations were successfully connected,” he said.
Boshielo stressed that electricity is the backbone of any modern city.
According to Boshielo, in Region 3, Proclamation Hill’s overloaded network was upgraded at three mini-substations, with plans for two more upgrades in the coming year.
“Fortsig also benefited from enhancements to the MVS60 11kV headline, which has significantly reduced power failures.”
He said Region 7’s Zithobeni community saw low-voltage networks and transformers upgraded, while Soshanguve in Region 1 received new cabling and network stabilisation following improvements to the IA Substation.
Boshielo said Louwlardia Substation in Region 4 was refurbished with new panels, a camera and alarm system, and a protection system to ensure reliability.
“Fragile cables in Olievenhoutbosch, Rua Vista were replaced, and the PPC Mine now has a dedicated overhead line, ensuring a consistent power supply,” he explained.
“By investing in our infrastructure and stabilising our networks, we are not only reducing outages but also preparing Tshwane for future growth.”
He concluded by saying the metro remains committed to proactive maintenance, network upgrades, and strategic interventions to ensure residents and industries are less burdened by preventable power outages, setting a strong standard for municipal service delivery.
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