Eskom has reported progress in its revenue management and maintenance programme following an operation in Diepsloot, Johannesburg, where it removed 35 illegally connected transformers. The programme forms part of a broader strategy including network audits and removal of unauthorised connections.

In Diepsloot Extension 6, illegal connections are estimated to cost the utility around R1 million per month and contribute to additional losses from unserved energy due to outages. Of 1 072 customers connected to the feeder, 791 are classified as zero buyers, meaning 75% are not purchasing electricity.

The utility is currently verifying the serial numbers of removed transformers, considering incidents of illegal installation of stolen transformers. “We are currently investigating allegations from community leaders that some Eskom employees are allegedly involved in the sale of illegal transformers,” the utility said in a statement.

Eskom is collaborating with the South African Police Service, the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department, Red Ants and private security firms to address the challenges posed by illegal electricity connections.

Illegal connections lead to network overloading, which not only damages infrastructure and poses safety risks but also results in significant revenue losses. In its 2022/23 financial year, Eskom experienced non-technical losses of approximately R5 billion due to illegal connections, meter bypasses and other electricity-related criminal activities.