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City Power offices in Johannesburg.
The Emmarentia Residents’ Association in Johannesburg has slammed City Power‘s move to make consumers pay for electricity cables leading from the grid into their homes if they’re damaged or stolen.
The new policy shifts the cost of cables and installation to households and requires residents to meet strict standards before they can be reconnected.
During the first inspection at a residential property, the team discovered non-compliance with electricity regulations. Officials identified illegal electricity connections and evidence of electricity theft.
As a result, City Power implemented a Level 2 disconnection, and the… pic.twitter.com/AB7yJDNFDD
— @CityPowerJhb (@CityPowerJhb) February 24, 2026
The association warns that the decision will push more people toward illegal connections, as many already can’t afford the high cost of replacement cables.
The Association’s chairperson Saber Manjoo says it is impossible for residents to be able to look for property that is outside the premises they are staying in.
“It is an undue pressure that you are putting on to the community and people. Already we are burdened with many things that we have to do ourselves, the council and entities are supposed to do now this additional burden it doesn’t make sense. it is not acceptable.”
