Modise regrets country’s dependency on Eskom
Utility labelled as a “discriminator”
The chairwoman of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP)‚ Thandi Modise‚ has questioned why the country has been dependent on Eskom for electricity since 1994‚ when the power utility is inefficient.
Modise labelled Eskom a “discriminator” because it provided energy unequally‚ leaving rural and township residents with sub-standard power.
Speaking at the SA Local Government Association (Salga) summit on energy in Sandton yesterday‚ she questioned SA’s energy journey since 1994.
“Energy is a big discriminator. It says to you who I am. From where I live‚ you can tell the quality of energy I am exposed to. For me… I have queried why‚ since 1994‚ we have allowed that type of energy and connections that Eskom does to the rural areas and people in the townships,” said Modise.
“Therein lies the reason why South Africa is still a divided and unequal society, because energy that we provide to the majority of South Africans is not of reliable standard and is not consistent.”
She said voters would soon put pressure on the government to ensure fair power distribution.
“There are areas in South Africa… where if the wind is strong enough‚ the TV goes off. These are the voters that are supposed to say‚ yes‚ we are now connected and are equal with rest of the country.”
The Salga energy summit has been organised to find solutions for energy problems that municipalities are facing.
It is being attended by mayors‚ city managers‚ councillors‚ energy experts and other role players in the local government space.
Modise added that energy was a big divider between people from rural areas and those living in big cities.
“Energy says when my child can go to school. Energy defines the type of health system that is available to the majority of South Africans. Energy is still one of the most strategic factor of production.
“Without reliable‚ quality and sustainable electricity supply‚ we are unable to attract investment into the rural areas,” she said.
Modise added that it was important for rural women to have a guaranteed and safe supply of electricity. –