By Doreen Mokgolo
Energy Minister Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa revealed that over eight million of the 10-million registered poor households in South Africa are not receiving the free basic electricity the government offers.
The problem is that municipalities are not properly registering the people who qualify for this benefit.
Speaking in Tshwane on Monday, Ramokgopa noted that even people who pay their bills on time are affected by power cuts.
He spoke about the importance of protecting those who can’t afford to pay their bills due to financial difficulties.
“Eskom is owed R78-billion by municipalities, while municipalities are owed R349-billion by customers, including individuals, businesses, and the government,” he said.
To solve this issue, Ramokgopa announced that they are working with private companies on new solutions.
These have already been tested in three municipalities: Dr Beyers Naudé in the Eastern Cape, Kamiesberg Municipality, and Nama Khoi Municipality in the Northern Cape.
The plan is to make sure municipalities explore ways to handle debt without hurting their finances.
Two municipalities in each province, especially those with the most debt, will be chosen to try out these solutions.
Pictured above: Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgola.
Source: Doreen Mokgolo
