TAKING THE INITIATIVE: Businesses pool funds for Gqeberha substation’s R1m security upgrades
In an effort to prevent power outages from crippling businesses in the industrial areas of Deal Party and Struandale, several Gqeberha firms have banded together to install security upgrades at the crucial Swartkops Substation, including a fence worth nearly R1-million.
In a bid to prevent power outages from disrupting businesses in the industrial areas of Deal Party and Struandale, Gqeberha firms have united to install security upgrades at the critical Swartkops Substation, including a fence valued at nearly R1 million. Last month, one of Nelson Mandela Bay’s automotive giants incurred nearly R400,000 in diesel expenses to keep their backup generators running and assembly lines operational during an unexpected 15-hour power outage.
This incident highlighted the recurring problem of the city's deteriorating electricity infrastructure, exacerbated by persistent vandalism and theft. Specifically, the Swartkops Substation has been a frequent target over the past three months. Rather than merely bearing the financial burden of additional fuel costs, businesses in the areas supplied by this substation decided to take matters into their own hands.
Through an initiative spearheaded by the Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber’s cluster in Deal Party and Struandale, nearly R1 million was raised to fund security upgrades around the Swartkops facility. Donors included S&N Rubber, Isuzu Motors South Africa, Autocast, BASF, and Continental Tyre SA, with the Ezethu Development Trust leading the charge by contributing R500,000.
The municipal spokesperson emphasized the importance of strategic partnerships between government and the private sector to ensure sustainable and reliable services for communities and businesses.
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