PETITION TO NERSA REDUCE POWER OUTAGES IN BOKSBURG, KEMPTON PARK AND BENONI

We, the residents Boksburg, Kempton Park, and Benoni, hereby would like to petition the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) regarding the persistent and disruptive power outages that have plagued our communities over the last month/ few days.  

The residents of Boksburg, Kempton Park, Benoni, and the surrounding areas have endured more than 20 area and suburban power outages in the past few months alone. These frequent disruptions have caused considerable distress, inconvenience, and financial losses for residents and businesses, undermining the quality of life and economic viability of our region.

The impact of these recurring power outages extends far beyond mere inconvenience. These disruptions compromise the ability of local businesses to operate effectively and profitably. The financial losses incurred due to damaged equipment, interrupted business operations, and spoiled goods are significant and have a direct impact on the economic well-being of our community.   Furthermore, the outages jeopardize the provision of essential services, including healthcare. Medical facilities rely on uninterrupted power to function effectively, and the safety and well-being of patients who depend on electrically powered medical equipment are at risk.   Our children's education is also severely affected. Frequent power outages disrupt online learning and the completion of homework, and the lack of access to electricity hinders educational progress. We are deeply concerned about the long-term implications for our children's educational outcomes.  

Moreover, as our local economy suffers from these power outages, property values in Kempton Park are at risk of decline. A reliable power supply is essential for economic growth, investment, and job creation in the region. The current situation is deterring potential investors and eroding the financial stability of residents.   Currently, the residents in Kempton Park have been without power for more than 10 days due to a faulty electricity cable. The CoE’s service level agreement provides the following service standards in relation to the restoration of electricity supply after unplanned power interruptions.  

E2 Restoration of Supply after Unplanned Power Interruptions

• E2.1 Power failure: single customer - 24 hours
• E2.2 Power failure: business customer - 24 hours
• E2.3 Power failure: multiple customers - 24 hours  

The above standards have not been adhered to despite numerous reports and escalations from residents and councillors. 

In light of the severe consequences and the violations of the Electricity Regulation Act, we hereby would like to petition NERSA to take immediate and decisive action to address this pressing issue. We urge NERSA to conduct a thorough and comprehensive investigation into the root causes of these recurrent power outages and to ensure that necessary corrective measures are implemented without delay. Moreover, we would like to request an investigation into the competence and skill level of contractors appointed to perform the work to ensure quality workmanship on electricity projects going forward.

Democratic Alliance Ekurhuleni    Contact the author of the petition