Eskom update: three munis avoid disconnection

On Monday, Eskom announced that it has reached a further three payment agreements with Dihlabeng and Masilonyana municipalities in the Free State Province; and Mamusa in the North West Province.

Echoing the positive developments, interim chief executive, Matshela Koko, said: “We have always emphasised the fact that electricity interruptions are the last resort available to us, which we have taken agonisingly. We are immensely encouraged by the kind of response we are witnessing presently.”

Eskom keeps close eye

According to Koko, Eskom will be monitoring the strict adherence to the payment plans, the utility said in a statement.

“Time has come for the outstanding overdue debt to be honoured in full. Eskom is bent on ensuring that this happens for the sole benefit of, not only Eskom, but the entire South African economy,” he said.

Munis to follow requirements

To avoid supply interruptions, the municipalities need to meet the following three requirements:

• A cash payment as negotiated with each municipality
• A written undertaking in the form of a Council Resolution that current accounts will be honoured going forward
• A payment plan for the arrears supported by a Council Resolution

The parastatal will continue with the supply interruptions of electricity to the remaining municipalities between 06h00 – 08h00 and 17h00 – 19h30 (Monday to Friday) and 08h30 – 11h00 and 15h00 – 17h30 (Saturday and Sunday).

Being a socially aware entity, Koko said, we opted for a less invasive method of collection.

“It cannot be overemphasised that relevant laws and agreements permit Eskom to effect 100% electricity disconnections upon non-payment, subject to the prescribed due processes. But we did not exercise this option,” he said.

Continued interruptions

The supply interruptions will continue as follows:

NORTHERN CAPE

NORTH WEST

MPUMALANGA