Public energy meeting provides lightbulb moment for many
THE South Durban Community Environmental Alliance (SDCEA) hosted a public meeting on energy on Tuesday, 27 August at the Austerville community hall in Wentworth.
Issues around alternative energy; solar power geyser installations; tariff increases and the smart electricity plans were discussed by SDCEA members and energy experts.
The many residents who attended voiced their concerns about increasing tariffs, which were particularly difficult for pensioners to afford.
Independent researcher, David Hallowes demonstrated his findings from a research project he conducted in South Durban, the Highveld and Vaal. His project, entitled ‘Energy Sovereignty’ showed that more than 50% of households experienced cut-off from electricity. Most of the people he spoke to said they opted for a pre-paid system because it allowed them to control their usage.
SDCEA representatives spoke to the assembled crowd about applying for free basic electricity and water, and explained how to they could get access to it. The consensus from the residents was this was much-needed advice, which would allow them to save their money.
For information on David Hallowe’s research, or getting access to free basic electricity, contact the SDCEA on 031-461-1991.
– erinh@dbn.caxton.co.za
