JEFFREYS BAY – Lights have been switched on for 250 households in the London area of Ocean View, following the completion of the first phase of a R2.5 million electrification project.

The households were officially connected to the electricity network on Wednesday, 12 August.

Phase 1 of the Ocean View electrification project has now been completed, with the municipality turning its attention to the second phase.

As part of Phase 2, local residents are being employed to assist with planting electricity poles as infrastructure work continues.

Kouga Executive Mayor Hattingh Bornman said the use of local labour was an important part of the project.

“Where possible, we want our infrastructure projects to benefit the communities in which they are implemented,” Bornman said.

“The involvement of local residents in planting poles provides valuable work opportunities while they play a direct role in developing their own community.”

Bornman said the provision of electricity would improve the quality of life for affected households and contribute towards safer living conditions.

“Kouga continues to prioritise the safety of residents and animals by addressing electrical hazards, while also protecting critical electrical infrastructure and reducing energy losses within the municipal network,” he said.

According to Bornman, complaints relating to dangerous electrical connections have also decreased over time.

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