KwaDukuza eyes smart power future with R150K China visit on the cards
The KwaDukuza municipality is weighing a public-private partnership to develop a smart energy system and may send a five-member delegation to China to study similar setups.
The R150 000 trip proposal, discussed at last week's council meeting, drew criticism from opposition parties, who argued that local solutions should be prioritised.
The delegation would include three councillors and two officials. Upon return, they would submit a feasibility study and report to council.
KwaDukuza has faced serious ongoing electricity outages, with some areas left powerless for more than a week during December and January. These blackouts have severely impacted local businesses and tourism, prompting the municipality to create an Electrical Task Team to identify short- and long-term solutions.
The proposed smart energy system would incorporate digital tools such as smart meters to detect faults faster, reduce power losses and give consumers more control.
Many private businesses and homes have already adopted solar energy, but the municipality hopes to implement a more resilient and integrated model. Private investors would share funding and operational risks, while Umfolozi TVET College has agreed to assist with skills training.
The project would be rolled out in four phases: Research and partnerships, pilot projects, building a training centre and full-scale implementation over two years.
DA caucus leader Privi Makhan said local investors should be consulted before committing public funds to overseas travel.
ActionSA's Nel Sewraj agreed, saying, 'The company we are considering could send representatives here to present their plan. There's no need for us to go there.'
Deputy mayor Njabulo Cele defended the proposal: 'What happened in December was frustrating. We need to explore every possible solution.'
Electrical Services director Sbusiso Jali clarified that China is just one possible partner.
'We are seeking partnerships with the private sector in general. The visit to China is proposed because it is one of the places that has successfully addressed similar challenges. But we are not excluding other options,' said Jali.
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