Who needs a meter? Get a substation in your yard

City Power arrested a businessman in Lenasia yesterday for allegedly connecting a mini-substation illegally.

According to Lenasia general manager Nelson Ravuka, City Power found the mini-substation that disappeared 10 years ago at his premises yesterday.

Ravuka said the man had applied for a three-phase meter, but somehow ended up with the mini-substation.

It was connected to the network via a 1km cable, also suspected to have been stolen from the power utility. The substation was repossessed.

As part of its drive to collect revenue, the power utility also disconnected a customer who had an outstanding debt of R1.5 million.

The customer will be served with a penalty.

“Customers who settle debts or make arrangements will avoid disconnection and fees,” said Ravuka.

“Illegal connections exacerbate revenue losses, so we’re intensifying efforts to identify and disconnect them.”

Last Thursday, the power utility was in Midrand, where customers owed R350 million.

Two residential complexes were disconnected for debts of R25 million and R5 million each.

A shopping centre was also cut off for a debt of close to R10 million.

“We urge customers to take advantage of payment arrangements and settlement options to avoid disconnection and associated fees. Your cooperation is crucial for the success of our revenue collection efforts,” Ravuka said.

In November, the power utility gave hospitals in Joburg 14 days to settle outstanding balances. The department of health said it was in the process of settling the debt.