Major power cuts coming to several municipalities in South Africa

Eskom has warned that 14 municipalities could face load-shedding-style power cuts after failing to pay their electricity bills.

The power utility has started a public consultation process on its plan to reduce electricity supply to these municipalities as their debt continues to grow.

Speaking to 702, Eskom’s acting group executive for distribution, Agnes Mlambo, said the interruptions would not be a complete shutdown.

“It is very important to emphasise that the cut-off is not a total switch-off. It will come in stages very similar to load-shedding,” she said.

Initially, power would be cut for a few hours per day, with the duration increasing if municipalities continue to miss payments.

Eskom issues legal notices

Eskom issued legal notices to around 14 municipalities on 5 March 2026 under the Promotion of Administrative Justice Act.

The municipalities targeted have not paid their electricity bills for at least 18 months and have failed to meet the requirements of the National Treasury’s municipal debt relief programme.

Worst offenders owe billions

The worst-performing municipalities collectively account for about 58% of total municipal arrears, which amount to R62.3 billion.

Among the biggest debtors are:

• Emalahleni – R11.4 billion owed
• Matjhabeng – R6.9 billion owed
• Govan Mbeki – R6.1 billion owed

These municipalities also have very low payment levels, averaging around 31%.

Another municipality that has received notice is the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality, which reportedly owes Eskom R3.4 billion.

If the debt is not addressed by 16 April 2026, Eskom may interrupt power supply to parts of the metro, including Alberton, Boksburg, Germiston, and Kempton Park.

Eskom is also considering prepaid electricity supply for municipalities or allowing customers to pay Eskom directly to prevent debts from escalating further.