How to keep the lights on when the going gets tough
Making prior arrangements with the municipality can help to keep the lights on.
It is advised that you keep up to date with your payments, however, if you are unable to meet the demands, making prior arrangements with the municipality can help to keep the lights on.
The Spokesperson for the Polokwane Municipality, Thipa Selala confirmed that the minimum payment that can be made is 20% of the total debt.
The municipality does not cut off electricity without prior notice. “The municipality issues monthly statements via post, e-mail or SMS. Furthermore, the municipality issues a reminder notice for arrears via SMS, e-mail and physical delivery giving 14 days for payment before disconnection,” he said.
The due date for payment is the 25th of every month, meaning all third-party payments should be made two days before the due date.
If the electricity is turned off, it will be restored within 48 hours of arrangements being approved. “All payments and all approved arrangements are updated on the system. Failure to honour due dates will render an arrangement invalid,” he added.
Arrangements for payment can be made at counter seven, eight or nine in the rates hall at the Civic Centre on Mondays to Fridays between 08:00 and 16:00.
“Alternatively, you can pay a minimum of 20% and send an e-mail to PamelaM@polokwane.gov.za for arrangement of payment,” said Thipa. In an instance of a complaint, visit counter seven, eight or nine in the rates hall or alternatively e-mail juniors@polokwane.gov.za or PamelaM@polokwane.gov.za. Incorrect disconnections can be reported to service.polokwane@baatshuma.co.za.
