On 11 December 2024 at about 18:30 a 500 MVA transformer at the Midas Substation tripped, disrupting electricity supply to approximately 15 mines in the Carletonville, Fochville, and Potchefstroom areas, as well as to residential customers.
Eskom’s technical teams acted swiftly and have managed to restore essential load to the mines, enabling limited operations. However, efforts are still underway to complete repairs and fully restore electricity supply to all affected customers.
Our employees are working tirelessly around the clock to expedite the restoration process. At this stage, we are unable to provide a definitive timeline for the conclusion of the repairs. The safety of our employees and contractors remains our number one priority as they are being threatened by the illegal miners (Zama Zamas) operating in the area contributing to the delay in supply restoration.
Eskom conducts its business with the principle that “No operating condition, or urgency of service, justifies exposing anyone to negative risks arising out of Eskom’s business or cause them injury or damage to the environment. We are committed to keeping all affected customers updated as we make progress.
We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience caused and appreciate your patience and understanding during this challenging time. Eskom will provide regular updates across all its communications platforms.
About Eskom and Electricity – Debt: The company has faced significant debt challenges, exceeding R400 billion.
HOV
While studying to be a CA, Nicholas Bell developed a merchandising app for SAB (South African Breweries), once he built one solution, he quickly acquired more clients and by the time he was preparing to do his articles, SAB gave him a three-year deal as part of their merchandising programme. At 22, while still living with his parents, his first business comprising four people had a turnover of R700 000. By the second year, turnover grew to R1.6 million. After six years, his turnover was R21 million, he employed 25 people with clients including Simba, Harmony, ArcelorMittal, SAB, and Sibanye Gold. Eight years later, Bell hit R100 million, then pivoted the business to ensure they couldn\’t be disrupted. He implemented an investor-led strategy, which will see the business doing 40% of its work offshore with a R500 million turnover in five years.