South Africa’s public electricity company, Eskom, has issued a stark warning to Johannesburg, threatening scheduled power cuts if the city fails to settle its debt, amounting to several hundred thousand euros.
This warning has sparked concern, prompting a meeting set for Monday, November 11, between Minister of Electricity Rhosiento Rhamorhopa and Johannesburg Mayor Dada Morero. Their goal: to avert an Eskom-imposed blackout.
The standoff between Eskom and the city has escalated, with both sides assigning blame. Eskom is demanding the city clear its debt, while city officials argue that Eskom is overcharging, claiming the demand amounts to several billion South African rand. Eskom, however, is resolute in its push for payment and has warned of a power cut in December—right in the middle of the city’s festive season—if the situation remains unresolved.
In a public statement, Johannesburg’s administration condemned the potential cut, calling it “harmful to residents and businesses” and appealing for constructive dialogue while hinting at the possibility of legal action. Although large-scale power cuts have been frequent in South Africa’s recent past, they have been absent for over five months as the country works through its energy crisis. The city is determined to avoid further disruptions and maintain this progress.