Eskom has reversed its decision to cut power to Johannesburg following a direct intervention by Minister of Electricity and Energy, Kgosientsho Ramokgopa. The move comes after a tense dispute over outstanding debts owed by City Power, the city’s electricity distributor.
On Thursday, Eskom issued a warning that it would suspend electricity supply to Johannesburg due to an outstanding debt of R4.9 billion in arrears and an additional R1.4 billion on its current account. However, City Power quickly responded, challenging the accuracy of Eskom’s billing, claiming that meter readings did not align with the amounts Eskom had invoiced.
In a statement issued later that night, City Power emphasized that the matter was already being addressed in court, questioning the need for Eskom’s public threat.
Minister Ramokgopa stepped in to mediate between the two parties, calling for an independent technician to assess the billing discrepancies. As part of the resolution, City Power has agreed to settle its current debt while the billing issues are investigated.
The minister also highlighted the broader issue of municipal debt, which has now escalated to a staggering R90 billion nationwide, underscoring the critical need for resolution in order to prevent further disruptions.
Both Eskom and City Power have now agreed to drop the legal dispute and work towards an amicable solution, bringing a temporary end to the threat of power cuts in Johannesburg.