City Power, the municipal entity responsible for electricity distribution in Johannesburg, has announced a significant development in its efforts to reduce load shedding. Key customers, essential services, and select businesses will be excluded from scheduled power cuts, provided network configurations allow for such exemptions. The Member of the Mayoral Committee for the Environment and Infrastructure Services Department (EISD), Councillor Jack Sekwaila, says this move, gradually implemented since early June, aims to safeguard jobs, and maintain a favourable business environment in Johannesburg.
City Power has been proactively excluding various health institutions from load shedding since last year, prioritising the delivery of essential services to residents.This was in response to requests from the Department of Health and Eskom. Since then, prominent institutions like Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital, Rahima Moosa Mother and Child Hospital, and Charlotte Maxeke Hospital are among those benefiting from this arrangement, prioritising the delivery of essential services to residents.
“We recognise the essential role played by these institutions in our community. In addition to health facilities, we have expanded the list to include other essential services such as water infrastructure, data centres, and even certain businesses,” says Isaac Mangena, City Power spokesperson.
Mangena says the entity is currently finalising plans and conducting consultations with Eskom, the national power utility, to ensure a seamless transition and the full implementation of the new load shedding schedule.
Under this arrangement, City Power will assume complete responsibility for operating all of its substations during load shedding, further enhancing its ability to manage electricity distribution effectively.
In addition, City Power is actively exploring alternative energy sources to drive innovation and sustainability, aligning with the municipal vision of becoming a world-class African City.
“Our intention is to increase profitability, reduce dependence on Eskom, retain customers, and achieve long-term sustainability over a 15-year period,” he adds.
The entity’s initiatives include partnering with Independent Power Producers (IPPs), installing rooftop solar systems, implementing Ripple Relay and Load Limiting Systems, investing in energy efficiency and management systems, and using solar high mast lighting and geysers, as well as recommissioning Open Cycle Gas Turbines.
“Several of these alternative solutions are already being implemented, and through collaboration with our communities, we can ensure a reliable electricity supply for the residents of Johannesburg,” Mangena says.
To support these efforts, City Power encourages community members to report cable theft, vandalism, or any suspicious activities to their 24-hour hotline by dialling 0800 116 166.
Written by Sascha-Lee Joseph
13/07/2023