In South Africa, the promise of free electricity for poor households seems more like a fairy tale than a reality. Energy analyst Chris Yelland recently revealed that, while the government has pledged to provide 10 million households with free basic electricity, the funds are being misappropriated—and not in the Robin Hood way.
In a dramatic turn of events, Electricity Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa said that the government would review the country’s electricity pricing policy to address the ongoing affordability crisis. With power prices soaring, many households can’t afford to keep the lights on, let alone cook or watch TV. Ramokgopa admitted that the current system isn’t working and promised to consult with various stakeholders (including Eskom and the National Energy Regulator of South Africa) to find a solution.
But here’s the kicker: the policy meant to help the poor with free basic electricity isn’t working either. Yelland claims that while municipalities are supposed to distribute 50 kWh of free electricity each month to qualifying households (enough for basic lighting and a bit of water heating), only 20% of the targeted households are actually receiving it. Why? The money meant for free electricity is being diverted to cover other municipal costs.
In simpler terms: the poor are being robbed blind, and the government is watching. With 80% of indigent households missing out on the free electricity they are entitled to, it seems the only thing that’s getting a charge is the money meant for those who need it most.
Is the system broken? Absolutely. Will anything change? Well, let’s just say we’re still waiting for that bright spark of hope.
Source Info: https://dailyinvestor.com/energy/59384/free-electricity-scandal-in-south-africa