Eskom network overloading in the Vaal

Eskom has commenced with the normalization of 27 transformers and mini-substations, which have failed, and some exploded as a result of network overloading in the Vaal area.This follows a commitment Eskom made recently in a meeting held by the Vaal Electricity Task Team after it was assured that its employees will not be prevented from operating in the area.  Due to the high volumes of equipment that has failed, the work will be executed in phases informed by the scope of work and material availability.

In the Task Team meeting comprising of representatives from Eskom, the Gauteng Premier’s Office and councillors in the Emfuleni Local Municipality and the City of Joburg, the power utility said the normalisation process will begin with network audits to determine the extent of the damage to Eskom’s electricity infrastructure.  The audit process includes, the removal of illegal connections, meter bypasses and the issuing of remedial fines to customers who are found to have tampered with the infrastructure. Full payments are to be made by customers issued with remedial fines, or deferred payment arrangement (DPA) forms should be submitted to Eskom.

Customers are expected to pay or buy electricity tokens from authorised outlets as part of the initiative to ensure electricity service delivery. Eskom will then repair or replace transformers and other network equipment to ensure safe and paid for electricity usage. The normalisation process is planned over a period of eight months starting in areas with the oldest network equipment failures that have complied with the audit process and adhere to safety guidelines, to ensure the safety of employees.  The task team appeals to the members of the public to be patient, and cooperate with it as it works towards a solution. Eskom appreciates the collaboration with the Task Team which is ensuring that the communities begin to cooperate so that the much need electricity is restored in the Vaal.