POLOKWANE – Seshego residents are up in arms in the wake of proposed electricity tariff increases by the Polokwane Municipality, pending finalisation by the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (Nersa).
Should the proposal be approved and amended for the 2023/24 financial year, residents will have to pay 15.75% more for water and 17% more for electricity – the most notable increases since the 2028/19 financial year.
Currently, water costs 6,75% and electricity 7,6% less than the proposed tariffs.
During a presentation and consultation of the draft Integrated Development Plan (IDP) between residents and municipal officials last Monday in the Ngoako Ramahlodi hall, wards representatives expressed their dismay at the possibility of residents having to dig even deeper into their pockets while the municipality “is already battling to deliver services”.
To date, residents have had to face an inconsistent supply of water for a number of years, with the constant disruption to supply in recent months attributed to the maintenance pump stations and water works, according to public statements shared by the municipality.
This follows active efforts, according to statements, to increase the supply of clean drinkable water, using allocated funds from elsewhere, including the over R4m received from the Department of Water to assist both the municipality and state-owned bulk water supplier, Lepelle Northern Water (LNW) to realise a smooth supply.
Last Thursday, the municipality in its March projects progress report for this financial year, said the Seshego Water Treatment Works was at a 90% physical progress – a project of the 2022/23 financial year which saw a combined amount of over R15m.
The Olifantspoort South Regional Water Scheme in Mmotong wa perekisi for water reticulation among others, was proposed at a budget of over R11m for the benefits of wards 10, 16, 36 and 37.
With electricity, many residents who do to qualify for indigent help, face permanent power disconnection.
“We are not going to agree to this detrimental change because we suffer alone if we are silent about the impact thereof. While the Mayor, John Mpe is here, I want him to know that our protest demonstrations will not cease until residents are satisfied,” a representative of ward 13 (Zone 1 and extensions), George Thembo said.
The top three service delivery priorities for most wards include the need for permanent jobs in the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), the upgrading and maintenance of roads, and financial assistance for indigents, who will enjoy relief to the combined extent of R272m.
Households with a combined income not exceeding R4 700 monthly, child-headed families and people with disabilities will receive 6Kl of water, 100 units if electricity, and refuse removal and sewerage services at no cost.
A 100% rebate on assessment rates will be applicable in some cases and owners of residential properties who are dependent on social grants with a combined income not exceeding R10 400 monthly will qualify for an 80% rebate.
Mpe said the municipality has noted all the contributions made on the day and committed to amend the 2023/24 budget accordingly.
