Government, Eskom tackle energy challenges facing Philippi businesses

On Thursday, August 27, Deputy Minister of Electricity and Energy, Alexandra Abrahams visited local business owners in Philippi Cape Town, to address critical energy challenges impeding local commercial activity and to establish a coordinated framework for long-term resolution.

The engagement brought together senior representatives from the Department of Electricity and Energy, Eskom and the City of Cape Town, with businesses raising concerns about issues affecting their ability to operate effectively.

Abrahams said Eskom has committed to a targeted remediation programme aimed at addressing specific operational grievances raised by individual businesses.

“Sustainable job creation requires a reliable operational environment for the commercial sector. Government must work cooperatively with industry to dismantle barriers to economic growth. We must ensure that government is accessible and responsive to the concerns of businesses, as it is these businesses that must succeed and create the jobs that our country so desperately needs.”

The discussions also highlighted the impact of illegal electricity connections on businesses and the local power network. Business stakeholders raised concerns that illicit connections were putting additional pressure on the electricity grid and compromising its stability.

Eskom said it would work with the local community and private sector to establish a dedicated task team to address the broader issues contributing to illegal connections across Philippi.

The utility said illegal connections pose significant safety, financial and operational risks, while also placing additional pressure on the electricity system.

“Illegal connections are a symptom of socio economic circumstances which are exploited by criminality. Every illegal connection is a criminal act that endangers lives and costs the taxpayer millions of rands. The South African Police Service and the National Prosecuting Authority must do their part to address these crimes.”

Abrahams said a more coordinated approach between government, Eskom, businesses and other stakeholders would help ensure that concerns are dealt with more efficiently.

“The establishment of focused working group structures will ensure the involvement of all relevant stakeholders as well as ensure there is clear communication that results in issues being resolved more quickly. I am committed to ensuring that the Department of Electricity and Energy works with Eskom to create the energy environment needed for our businesses to succeed.”