Tshwane officially on the road to energy independence

12 September 2023

The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Tshwane supports the city’s decision to secure energy independence for its residents. Today's Continuation Council Meeting marked a significant milestone in the road to energy independence. We are now on our way to private power generation on a scale big enough to make a significant difference in the city’s load-shedding levels, while building towards an effective, reliable, and trustworthy energy mix that can sustain the city.

Council proceedings were marked by the unanimous approval of a crucial report, that will pave the way for public participation in the leasing of Rooiwal- and Pretoria West power stations. This means that these two power stations will soon, pending the outcome of a public participation process, be utilised by private power generators.

Tshwane must become a capital city where residents’ needs are met, and their municipality is at the forefront of ensuring crucial services are delivered. Our objective is to facilitate private power generation, empowering the municipality and its residents to take control of our energy destiny and mix.

Like the rest of South Africa, residents in Tshwane have suffered under load-shedding, experiencing firsthand the debilitating consequences. Prolonged power outages stemming from substation fires, water supply disruptions due to pump station malfunctions, and the scourge of vandalism and cable theft have underscored the pressing need for energy independence.

With a commitment to responsiveness and innovation, the municipality refuses to wait on Eskom, who proves daily that it cannot meet residents’ needs. Instead, this municipality is determined to chart its own course and find sustainable solutions.

The importance of stable electricity supply for economic growth cannot be overstated. Recognising this, the DA Tshwane Caucus has made energy independence a top priority. By endorsing this pivotal report, we embark on a journey to ensure that residents' lights remain on and that taps continue to flow.

As we enter this new phase, the Tshwane Municipality reaffirms its dedication to providing essential services and safeguarding public safety. We look forward to engaging with the community in the forthcoming public participation process, fostering a collaborative approach to securing Tshwane's energy future.

Issued by Kwena Moloto, DA Tshwane Caucus Spokesperson, 12 September 2023