10-05-2013: City Power reiterated its hardline stance against electricity theft and unsafe connections

10-05-2013: City Power reiterated its hardline stance against electricity theft and unsafe connections

City Power on Friday reiterated its hardline stance against electricity theft and unsafe connections, following community protests earlier in the week.

On Tuesday, City Power, the South African Police Services (SAPS), Johannesburg Metro Police (JMPD), Eskom, and the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (Prasa) disconnected several illegal connections in Kliptown which were connected to the City Power network.

“Electricity theft is an offence which compromises the stability of our network and affects service delivery to all our customers. In addition, illegal connections put community lives at risk, as there is inadequate protection against live wires, resulting in a higher risk of fire and electrocution. We cannot condone this hazard to the community,” said City Power spokesman Sol Masolo.

City Power and its shareholder, the City of Johannesburg, recognises that some households cannot afford to pay for electricity. The Siyasizana social package is available for anyone who earns less than R3 366 a month who lives in Johannesburg, including owners, tenants, and lodgers. The package includes a free basic electricity service for registered users.

In addition, City Power is installing 110 000 solar water heaters in low-income households over the next three years. This will enable residents to save on their electricity bills and enjoy readily-available hot water, perhaps for the first time.

Tip-offs regarding illegal connections, cable theft and vandalism can be reported to City Power’s anonymous line: 0800 002 587. Incidents of vandalism or cable theft can also be reported to (011) 490 7911 / 7900 / 7553.

ENDS