News24 | Massive power outage hits large parts of Tshwane

A major trip at the Njala infeed substation left the City of Tshwane with a widespread power outage.

The City of Tshwane was hit by a widespread power outage on Saturday after a major trip at the Njala infeed substation, one of its largest power hubs.

According to the City of Tshwane, transformers at the substation tripped, which affected supply to large parts of the city, predominantly in the eastern parts.

City spokesperson Lindela Mashigo confirmed that teams were working to resolve the issue, and no estimated time of restoration was currently available.

“Detailed investigations found that Transformer 1A to be the source of the initial trip and has developed a fault,” he said.

“ As a safety precaution, it has been isolated and will not be re-energised until all required technical tests and assessments have been completed.”

He added that, during efforts to restore supply through Transformer 1B, technicians detected a fault on the associated breaker, which also prevented successful energisation.

“This secondary fault means that the breaker must first be thoroughly tested, repaired and cleared by specialised maintenance and testing teams before power can be safely restored,” Mashigo said.

“Specialised testing and maintenance teams are currently on site and working jointly to stabilise the system and prevent further risks to equipment and supply.”

Affected areas include Willows, Villieria, Hillcrest, Koedoespoort, Waltloo, Die Hoewes, Mamelodi, Heatherly and Pyramid.

Residents on social media have also reported outages in the northern parts of the city, including Soshanguve, Montana, Equestria, Menlo Park and Arcadia.