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21 May 2026

PUBLIC NOTICE: ELECTRICITY SUPPLY UPDATE - 21 MAY 2026

The Municipality informs residents that electrical contractor teams are on site undertaking construction work to replace the overhead (OH) lines washed away by the river. 

The work involves

  • Planting new poles on both sides of the river (holes must first be dug). 
  • Dressing poles with line equipment (A‑frames, insulators, line links, etc.). 
  • Stringing OH conductors across spans of more than 200m over the river. 

Challenges being experienced

  • Limited access due to the condition of the area. 
  • Access roads must be created in several places. 
  • Vehicles frequently get stuck. 
  • Procurement of materials is difficult, as utilities across the Western Cape face shortages. For example, Adenco Construction procured a special link truck with 80 x 11m poles from Gqeberha for Langeberg, with material rerouted from other projects. 
  • Strict safety regulations apply when working on the river. 
  • Specialised vehicles and equipment are required. 

Restoration Priorities 

Our teams are prioritising areas where residents currently have no electricity at all, followed by critical pump stations and main feeder OH lines. This approach helps reduce pressure on the vulnerable electrical network and ensures that households regain supply as quickly as possible. 

Vulnerable Electrical Network

  • It is important to note that six of our feeder lines across the Breede River have been washed away. Until further assessments are completed and repair work can commence, many affected areas are being temporarily supplied through alternative supply points. 
  • The temporary electricity supply is currently shared between Robertson, Noree, and McGregor. While this measure is necessary to restore electricity to households as soon as possible, it places additional strain on the existing infrastructure. 
  • As a result, the electrical network is under immense pressure, with an increased risk of instability. Residents may experience low voltage or overload trips. 
  • All residents across the Langeberg area are therefore urgently requested to reduce electricity consumption as much as possible over the next few weeks, until the feeder lines are restored. This will help prevent damage to the infrastructure and avoid further interruptions. 

Helpful Electricity-Saving Tips to Reduce Load 

  • Switch off unnecessary lights and unplug unused appliances and chargers 
  • Avoid high-consumption appliances (especially heating elements) during peak hours: 06:00–09:00 and 17:00–20:00 
  • Reduce geyser use and limit hot water consumption where possible 

Despite these challenges, the Electrical Department and contractors remain committed, working around the clock in dangerous and difficult conditions to restore electricity supply to our valued customers as soon as possible. 

We appreciate your patience and understanding during this complex restoration effort.

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