The agreement focuses on improving revenue collection, fixing billing issues, and tackling widespread illegal electricity connections
By Mapaballo Borotho
Electricity Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa and Johannesburg Mayor Dada Morero appear to have reached common ground over the City of Johannesburg’s mounting debt owed to Eskom.
The two announced plans for Eskom and the City of Johannesburg to work together to address billing failures, technical losses, and broader electricity-related challenges affecting the metro.
But what exactly does this agreement mean for Johannesburg residents?
Speaking to Phemelo Motene on Kaya 959’s Point of view on Tuesday, 26 May 2026, Morero assured residents that the agreement means the city will avoid a total blackout.
“What happened is that between January and February, we defaulted due to the drop in our collection rate. We have recommitted ourselves to the agreement that was already in place,” said Morero.
The mayor emphasised that illegal electricity connections remain one of the biggest factors contributing to the city’s financial and infrastructure problems.
“It has also come to our attention that some residents can afford to pay for electricity, but are finding ways to avoid paying the municipality for the services they consume,” he added.
Morero said the city is intensifying its revenue collection campaign, particularly in Johannesburg’s CBD, where illegal electricity connections remain widespread.
He further warned that authorities would continue cracking down on illegal connections, adding that several arrests had already been made.
Morero also revealed that a bank has approved a loan for the City of Johannesburg, which will help improve electricity infrastructure and assist in tackling illegal connections.
He encouraged residents struggling to pay their electricity debt to come forward so the city can arrange more manageable payment plans.
“We are aware that the cost of electricity has increased and we need to find innovative ways. Unfortunately, once you consume services, you have to pay for them,” said Morero.
For more information on this story, listen to the podcast…
READ NEXT: Eskom and Joburg strike new deal after power shutdown threats
The post What Eskom’s new deal with Joburg means for residents after blackout threats appeared first on KAYA 959.
