The City of Tshwane has officially launched and energised Phase 1 of the informal electrification project in Pienaarspoort Extension 21, Region 5, bringing power to 373 households under the #SwitchOnTshwane programme.
MMC for Utility and Services, Cllr Frans Boshielo, was joined by Deputy Mayor Eugine Modise, Cllr Maselela, officials from the Energy & Electricity Business Unit, and the appointed contractor for the launch.
“Phase 1 has successfully brought electricity to 373 households, marking another important milestone in our commitment to expand access to reliable electricity and improving the lives of our residents,” MMC Boshielo said.
He added that the project forms part of the City’s broader plan to deliver infrastructure that transforms communities and ensures no one is left behind.
Phase 2 will begin later in July 2026. A further 240 households are expected to receive electricity by the end of December 2026 once the entire electrification project is completed.
For residents who have lived without formal power for years, the switch-on was a welcome relief, stating that they had been using illegal connections for too long, which was dangerous, especially for their kids. Now, they can cook safely, charge their phones, and their children can study at night. They are hoping that Phase 2 comes quickly so that all the neighbourhood also included.
The City said the #SwitchOnTshwane programme will continue to roll out across informal settlements to close the electricity access gap in Tshwane.
