Dark December in Store for Johannesburg As Eskom Threatens to Cut Power Over R4.9 Billion Debt
- Eskom is threatening to cut power to Johannesburg in December because of an outstanding bill
- The City of Johannesburg is disputing Eskom's claims that it owes R4.9 billion to the power utility
- South Africans have differing opinions about Eskom's threat, but many have blamed the ANC
Source: Getty Images
Johannesburg could be in for a dark December if Eskom has its way. The power utility threatens to cut off electricity to Midrand, Joburg CBD, Mnandi, Cresta and other areas as soon as 14 December 2024.
Why is Eskom threatening to cut power?
Eskom has threatened to cut the power because the City of Johannesburg (CoJ) owes R4.9 billion in unpaid bills.
In its official notice served to the City of Johannesburg, Eskom stated exactly which power stations incurred the majority of the R4.9 billion debt. These are the Fordsburg, Beyers, Crowthorne and Allandale substations.
CoJ condemns threat by Eskom
The City has not only disputed the amount but also condemned Eskom's threat.
“The City strongly condemns this move as unjust, counterproductive, and potentially harmful to the residents and businesses of Johannesburg.”
CoJ stated that there were ongoing disputes regarding the overbilling of R3.4 billion and that an appeal was pending.
“The City has repeatedly raised concerns about this continued overbilling, which Eskom has failed to address, placing additional strain on the City’s resources.”
South Africans weigh in on Eskom’s threats
Leroy Leroy said:
“Maladministration is ripping apart large cities. Politics is another factor.”
Colin Bridger stated:
“It's about time. Make examples.”
Daniel Mattheus added:
“Just cut off Johannesburg. Do we really need them anymore? No money, no honey, as simple as that. They voted for them, so they chose their corrupt leaders. Then there should be no issue if their leaders thought they don’t need to pay the bills.”
Michaelle Theunissen asked:
“Do they realise they will lose more money then?”
Heinrich Potgieter said:
“This comes down to government against government (yes, Eskom belongs to the state). It is so funny.”
Mark M Wade added:
“Eskom, CityPower, NERSA and the ANC are the same people determined to reduce our country to stone age darkness.”
North West municipalities owe Eskom billions
In a related article, Briefly News reported that 11 municipalities in the North West owe Eskom billions.
The power utility stated that the municipalities owe them more than R7.5 billion but that some are working towards paying it. South Africans took to social media to blame the African National Congress for the poor situation.
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Source: Briefly News
