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Electricity Minister Pledges Universal Access by 2029 Despite Municipal Debt Crisis
Minister of Electricity Kgotsientsho Ramokgopa has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring universal electricity access for all South Africans by 2029, despite the ongoing challenges of load reduction and municipal debt.
Speaking before the Human Rights Commission, which is investigating the human rights impact of load reduction, Ramokgopa acknowledged that 1.6 million South African households remain without electricity. However, he expressed confidence that this gap would be closed within the next five years.
#loadreduction| “What the government is doing now in attempt to sustain the grid, is to invite those who are bypassing to present themselves to ESKOM to be connected legally. We shall provide you with smart meters and basic electricity subsidy” Ramokgopa pic.twitter.com/giCNZEeJRx
— SAHRCommission (@SAHRCommission) February 18, 2025
Ramokgopa highlighted the country’s progress in electricity provision since 1994, when only 36% of the population had access to power—96% of whom were white. He assured that under the seventh administration of the Government of National Unity (GNU), all households, including those in rural areas, would be connected to the grid.
“I’m more than confident. We are going to achieve universal access. We will design financing instruments that will accelerate connections and ensure delivery. It’s cleaner, cost-effective, and affordable. I’m confident we will reach that,” he stated.
The minister also emphasized that achieving universal access would depend on the successful implementation of current plans, as reported by Daily Maverick.
While outlining the government’s electrification goals, Ramokgopa acknowledged the financial strain on Eskom due to non-payment issues. He revealed that municipalities collectively owe Eskom over R100 billion, while consumers owe municipalities more than R387 billion.
The 2023 Treasury Municipal Debt Relief Circular described the situation as a “complex national problem” that continues to impact electricity pricing and the financial sustainability of Eskom.
Ramokgopa pointed to non-payment as one of the key factors driving rising electricity costs, further complicating efforts to expand access.
Despite these financial challenges, the minister remains optimistic that universal electricity access will be achieved by 2029, provided all stakeholders adhere to the government’s energy expansion plans.
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