For many consumers, the electricity price hikes over the past few months have caused quite a dent on some already tight budgets. The knock on effect of this is an increase in electricity theft through the use of illegal power connection and meter tampering.
According to www.operationkhanyisa.co.za an estimated R1.2 billion loss is experienced annually as a result of electricity theft. This naturally means that the cost of producing and supplying electricity is transferred back to us, the consumers.
In order to minimize these costs, or even better to eradicate them, we need to take a stand and assist where possible to stop this crime. And this is where Operation Khanyisa comes in. This campaign was recently launched in Soweto to mobilise all sectors of South African society against the scourge of electricity theft.
Operation Khanyisa advises everyone to come on board and make a contribution, no matter how small, and do your best to implement these changes in your households:
- Become legal electricity users and report those who are not.
- Pay all electricity bills, as non-payment is also illegal and contributes to revenue loss.
- Those who qualify for Free Basic Electricity (FBE), should ensure that they are registered to receive this service and collect their free tokens monthly.
- Become energy efficient and save money. For example use energy efficient Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFL’s). They cost a bit more than normal light bulbs but last much longer and use less power, saving you money in the long run.
- Influence co-workers, employers, friends, family and neighbours to become ambassadors for legal electricity use.
Visit their website www.operationkhanyisa.co.za to find out what more you can do to help combat this silent crime taking place in our country.
Remember that if you know of anyone involved in criminal activity or even suspect they might be involved in electricity theft, it is your responsibility to speak up and report the crime.
