Cogta MEC tackles KZN’s electricity issues
They were able to identify challenges faced by both Eskom and municipalities in implementing electricity projects.
To address the province’s pressing electricity challenges, the Department of Co-Operative Governance & Traditional Affairs (Cogta) MEC Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi and Eskom KZN leadership, led by GM Kevin Pillay, met last Friday.
This meeting forms part of Buthelezi’s ongoing efforts to tackle issues hampering local government and ensuring communities’ needs are met.
Discussions centred on the current state of the KZN power grid and explored innovative solutions to improve electricity access to residents.
The meeting identified challenges faced by both Eskom and municipalities in implementing electricity projects.
Key focus areas included combating illegal connections, progress on addressing issues with isolated transformers across the province, the development and implementation of a comprehensive electrification master plan, a thorough review of the current electrification status in KZN and Eskom’s planned projects for the 2025/26 financial year, including 11 753 new connections valued at R474m.
A key outcome of the meeting was the agreement to establish closer collaboration between Cogta and Eskom to address outstanding municipal debt owed to the power utility.
Both parties also committed to strengthening engagement with all local government stakeholders to improve community access to electricity.
“This engagement is vital as we are committed to addressing community concerns with urgency. This partnership with Eskom underscores our dedication to finding practical and sustainable solutions to improve service delivery and the lives of all KZN residents. Ultimately, our communities must be the beneficiaries of our efforts, and I am committed to acting in their best interests,” said Buthelezi.
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