Lightning, rain delay Mooikloof substation repairs
The City of
Tshwane says it’s teams were not able to continue with repairs at Mooikloof
substation on Saturday evening due to lightning and rain.
“Unfortunately, City of Tshwane’s teams were not in a position to begin energising Section A of the Mooikloof Substation due to the continued rain and lightning during the evening,” says spokesperson Hilgard Matthews.
This follows a fire that broke at the substation cut power to areas east of the city almost two weeks ago.
“The lightning, in particular, is very dangerous during the energisation process. There are grave risks in handling high voltage cables during these conditions and the teams have to wait until it is safe for them to continue,” says Matthews.
The city warned the restoration of power to the affected areas would take nine days to complete, however, due to heavy rains that have been occurring in and around Tshwane more time seems to be needed.
Matthews says roughly 60% of residents will have their power returned as the day progresses.
“Section A remains ready for its commissioning to begin gradual restoration of power to approximately 60% of affected households during the course of the day. In Section B, the teams were able to continue their work in spite of the rain.”
“The city will continue to update residents on this progress. We apologise for the continued delays, but employee safety must be prioritised in these weather conditions.”
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