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City Power Intensifies Crackdown on Illegal Connections in Johannesburg

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Johannesburg’s municipal power utility, City Power, has ramped up efforts to tackle illegal electricity connections, disconnecting at least 122 prepaid meters and seizing 150kg of aluminium wire valued at approximately R500,000.

Cut-Off Operations Target High-Risk Areas

On Monday, 20 January, and Tuesday, 21 January 2025, City Power issued statements highlighting the progress of their clampdown operations. The first operation targeted illegal connections in the City Deep area, following reports of meter tampering and unauthorized electricity use.

According to City Power, these activities pose significant safety hazards and contribute to financial losses for the City of Johannesburg. Acting on a tip-off from the Johannesburg Social Housing Company (Joshco), the Revenue Protection unit disconnected 122 prepaid meters and removed 114 circuit breakers to prevent reconnections.

Residents found guilty of tampering with their meters were fined over R14,000 for single-phase connections.

Inner City Customer Services Manager Maphuti Makgabo emphasized the utility’s commitment to safeguarding Johannesburg’s electricity infrastructure:
“We will continue collaborating with law enforcement agencies to combat illegal connections, which endanger lives and compromise reliable electricity services.”

Operation Extends to Roodepoort

Another major operation took place in the Princess Informal Settlement, Roodepoort, on Tuesday, 21 January. The operation uncovered a network of illegal connections, with over 150kg of aluminium wires confiscated. The wires, valued at R500,000, were found supplying unauthorized power to businesses and homes, including a panel beater, bakery, and crèche along Albertina Sisulu Road.

City Power noted that part of the settlement is legally electrified through the Department of Human Settlements, while the rest remains plagued by illegal connections.

Broader Solutions for Energy Challenges

City Power is addressing the root causes of electricity theft by investing in sustainable energy solutions. It plans to introduce microgrid systems to 14 informal settlements in 2025, providing clean and reliable energy while reducing dependency on illegal connections.

Spokesperson Isaac Mangena highlighted the utility’s collaborative efforts with law enforcement to crack down on illegal activities:
“We are also investigating allegations that some of our contractors and staff members are involved in illegal reconnections. Arrests will be made soon.”

Impacts of Illegal Connections

Illegal electricity connections are not only dangerous but also result in infrastructure damage, frequent outages, and financial losses for the utility. These challenges necessitate demand-reduction measures like load reduction, which leaves high-density areas without power for up to five hours during peak periods.

City Power reiterated its commitment to addressing electricity theft and ensuring energy resilience across Johannesburg.

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