Eskom is warning three municipalities, that there will be power interruptions if their respective debt is not paid or if they do not enter a payment plan.
Centlec, the Free State Utility which provides electricity to customers in Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality, the Mafube local municipality and the Mantsopa local municipality will now meet with Eskom on Thursday, November 28, to discuss paying off its debt.
Even though the Free State utility determined to come to an agreement with Eskom, if there is no solution, Eskom will withhold electricity supply services from 6am until 8pm during the week, as of December 3. A move which will affect scores of businesses in the respective areas.
However, Eskom adds it will withhold its electricity supply services in a regulated pattern. This will allow members of the community the opportunity to make alternative arrangements for the scheduled periods
The three Free State municipalities are not the only organisations facing guilty of non-payment. As of June 2019, municipalities and individuals around South Africa owe the power utility a staggering R36.5 billion. The debt seeming to continue to grow, as municipalities continue to fail to make payment.
The worst town known for non-payment is Soweto. As of 30 June 2019, Soweto owes Eskom R18.9 billion in unpaid bills. This accounts for more than half of total arrear debt.
With municipalities failing to make the necessary payments, what steps do you feel Eskom should take? Do you feel the power utility is justified in cutting a community’s power supply? Or do you feel municipal officials should pay the price? Share your thoughts and views with us in the comment section below.
One Response
Soweto has the biggest debt yet they have electricity 24/7, 365 days per year. Never had to endure loadshedding – howcome??