In June 2023, city energy officials faced an unprecedented challenge as they were tasked with addressing 50,000 service requests from communities across the metro. The types of requests varied from streetlight repairs and localized power outages to individual residential electricity faults.
Challenges Faced by the City Energy Officials
Complicating matters further was the impact of taxi unrest, which hindered service delivery and created additional backlogs. Delays in attending to service requests were also observed in areas where security escorts were necessary for team operations. Despite the inconvenience, the city’s dedicated energy teams remained committed to working through these challenges and making up for lost time.
Reasons for Surge in Electricity Service Requests
The surge in electricity service requests during June can be attributed to several factors, such as severe weather damage, vandalism-related faults, load-shedding, and secondary tripping. Throughout this period, teams from various depots were dispatched to over ten areas, including Valhalla Park, Hout Bay, Atlantis, Gugulethu, and Langa, among others.
Streetlight Maintenance and Repair
The city’s dedicated teams handle various electricity services, including streetlight maintenance and repair as well as first line responders. In June, the streetlight teams from Areas East, North, and South attended to an impressive 9,785 streetlight service requests. To avoid delays caused by duplicate service requests, residents are urged to use only one reporting channel when submitting them. Officials also expressed their gratitude to residents for their patience and cooperation.
Challenges with Secondary Tripping
One significant challenge faced by the city’s energy officials is the phenomenon of secondary tripping, also known as nuisance tripping. This occurs when the electricity supply fails to return or switches off shortly after being restored to an area. Residents can play a role in reducing this risk by turning off major and non-essential appliances before load-shedding occurs.
Efficient Response to Service Requests
To ensure an efficient response to service requests, residents are encouraged to log their requests through only one of the available channels, which include the Call Centre (0860 103 089), SMS (31220), email (power@capetown.gov.za), or e-Services (www.capetown.gov.za/servicerequests). This approach not only streamlines the process but also prevents the delays associated with multiple submissions of the same request.
City’s Energy Officials’ Dedication and Resilience
Despite the daunting challenge of tackling a record-breaking number of electricity service requests, the city’s energy officials have demonstrated their commitment and resilience in providing essential services to the community. Through effective communication, resource management, and teamwork, they have successfully navigated the complexities of this demanding period. As a result, residents can continue to rely on the city’s steadfast dedication to maintaining and improving their quality of life.
