The City of Cape Town has successfully completed the electrification of 58 households in the Greenfields informal settlement in the Helderberg area, a project valued at more than R912 000.
Despite challenges such as adverse weather, the initiative was completed in July 2025, thanks to the dedication of the City’s Energy teams, contractors, and community partners.
A Project of Hope After Fire
The project carries special significance as a portion of Greenfields was recently devastated by fire. City teams remain active in the community to safely reconnect residents affected by the blaze.
“This project holds particular importance as a portion of Greenfields was recently devastated by a fire. Our teams remain in the community to safely reconnect residents who were affected by the blaze. This demonstrates the City’s unwavering commitment to restoring and improving community infrastructure, providing residents with the tools to build a better future for their families,” said Mayoral Committee Member for Energy, Alderman Xanthea Limberg.
Residents connected to the City’s electricity network will also benefit from the subsidised Lifeline Tariff, which includes up to 60 free basic electricity units on prepaid purchases each month – significantly reducing household costs.
Safe, Affordable Power for Families
Access to electricity means families in Greenfields can now safely light their homes, reducing dependence on candles and paraffin, which often pose fire hazards. Learners and students can study at night under proper lighting, while households can refrigerate food and power essential appliances.
Expanding Access to Electricity
The City emphasised that under the Municipal Finance Management Act, public funds cannot be used to enhance private property. Electrification projects can only be rolled out to backyarders and informal settlement dwellers living on City-owned land where site conditions make it possible.
Currently, almost 100% of older City-supplied informal settlements have been electrified where feasible, and efforts continue to expand access in partnership with Eskom in other areas.
“The City remains committed to improving the lives of residents by extending essential services to communities in need. We will continue working to create safer, healthier, and more connected living conditions for all Cape Town residents,” Alderman Limberg added.
