Eskom is dissatisfied with the City of Tshwane’s growing electrical debt. The city’s debt is estimated to be at R3.2 billion. In July and August, the debt grew even more.
According to Eskom, Gauteng’s municipal electricity debt is quickly expanding. As of August 31, Tshwane and Ekurhuleni owed the electricity provider a total of R4.7 billion.
According to Eskom Gauteng spokesperson Amanda Qithi, both towns’ payment habits have deteriorated to the point where Eskom’s liquidity, financial performance, and sustainability are jeopardized.
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She said the erratic payments by Tshwane dating back to 2022 were alarming.
“Also of serious concern is the entrenched practice by the City of Ekurhuleni of settling its account late over the past six months.
Despite all the avenues Eskom has explored to recover what is due to the organization, both municipalities have failed to fully honor their payments and to comply with their electricity supply agreements,” she said.
City manager Johann Mettler acknowledged the debt. “That translates into just over two months’ worth of revenue that would be due to Eskom.
”We have engaged Eskom in the past to make payment arrangements … though not to the satisfaction of Eskom,” he said.
Mettler explained that the city’s ability to pay stemmed from issues with collecting water and power payments from consumers. The city has already said that it is in financial trouble.
