KwaDukuza, South Africa – In a significant public hearing at KwaDukuza Town Hall, a majority of residents from the Harry Gwala district expressed their support for the Electricity Regulations Amendment (ERA) Bill. The Portfolio Committee on Mineral Resources and Energy conducted the hearing to gather public feedback.
According to Parliament of South Africa, residents endorsed the ERA Bill’s provision to open power generation to private enterprises. However, they raised concerns about the Bill’s lack of attention to environmental considerations. The residents noted that existing electricity sources are inadequate and advocated for exploring alternative, environmentally friendly power sources.
Participants specifically pointed out the Bill’s shortcomings in addressing the methods of power generation and their environmental impact. They emphasized South Africa’s status as a major polluter in the Southern hemisphere and advocated for a clear definition in the Bill, promoting only renewable and non-polluting power generation methods.
While supporting the competitive landscape the Bill would introduce in South Africa’s electricity market, the residents cautioned about potential collusion between companies, especially regarding pricing. They proposed the inclusion of a clause in the Bill to regulate prices and rates and to outline measures for electricity distribution and selling, including prohibitions and sanctions on illegal activities.
Another area of concern was the Bill’s vagueness about the participation of companies in the electricity sector post-enactment and the economic benefits for local communities. The residents suggested that the Bill should specify how local small businesses would benefit from the activities of these electricity companies.
In contrast, a segment of the attendees opposed the Bill, viewing it as a move towards the privatisation of new electricity generation. They expressed disappointment over the National Treasury and Parliament’s agreement that provided additional funding to Eskom with the condition that it not be used for building additional generation capacity. This group also criticized the Bill for not adequately addressing South Africa’s energy crisis.
Mr. Sahlulele Luzipho, the Chairperson of the committee, acknowledged the valuable inputs from the residents. He stated that after completing all consultations, the committee would deliberate on the Bill, considering all submissions, and prepare a report to be tabled in the National Assembly.