Energy teams recently conducted inspections in Maitland and surrounding areas to assess damaged electricity infrastructure and monitor progress on ongoing Medium Voltage (MV) maintenance and upgrade work aimed at improving power reliability.
Medium Voltage infrastructure distributes electricity from substations to residential, commercial and industrial areas, making it a critical link in maintaining grid stability and consistent electricity supply.
According to Mayoral Committee Member for Energy, Alderman Xanthea Limberg, investment in the area forms part of a broader effort to modernise electricity infrastructure across the metro.
“We are executing our city-wide MV maintenance and upgrade programme as part of our ongoing commitment to a reliable electricity grid,” said Limberg. “Work valued at R1.3 million has already been completed in Maitland during this financial year, improving supply quality and helping prevent unplanned outages.”
The upgrades fall within a wider three-year R4 billion electricity grid investment programme focused on strengthening network resilience and extending the lifespan of critical infrastructure.
Alongside infrastructure improvements, authorities continue to raise concern over the growing impact of vandalism, cable theft and illegal electricity connections. Damage to electricity assets cost approximately R62 million in repairs and replacements during the last financial year alone.
Limberg said extensive vandalism often results in entire neighbourhood grids needing replacement, causing prolonged disruptions for residents and businesses.
To address the challenge, the Protect Your Power campaign encourages communities to report suspicious activity and support efforts to safeguard electricity infrastructure.
“Our sustained investment in electricity and streetlighting infrastructure ensures residents continue receiving reliable services,” Limberg added. “But protecting these assets requires partnership with communities.”
Residents are encouraged to report suspicious behaviour anonymously through the Public Emergency Communication Centre on 021 480 7700, while the South African Police Service remains the lead authority in crime prevention.
