KROONSTAD – The former Kroonstad Power Station has fallen into severe disrepair following years of neglect, vandalism and copper theft, according to the Democratic Alliance.

The DA raised concerns after conducting an oversight visit to the facility last week, where extensive deterioration and signs of illegal activity were observed.

The second power station was commissioned in 1961 with a capacity of 30 MW to supplement the town’s electricity supply during periods of peak demand and to reduce costs for the municipality.

The station was shut down in 1997 due to high operating costs and a more favourable electricity tariff agreement with Eskom, which made continued operation financially unviable.

Following the closure, several service providers expressed interest in bringing the facility back into operation. During this period, the station remained secure and intact.

However, the municipality allowed the asset to deteriorate through inadequate maintenance. By 2014/15, switchgear and cables had been stolen, rendering the station unviable without substantial capital investment.

Chris Dalton, DA mayoral candidate for Moqhaka Local Municipality, said the condition of the former power station formed part of a wider problem affecting municipal assets, including stadiums, sewage plants, pump stations and roads.

“These assets belong to residents and should be properly maintained to protect their investment, attract economic activity, create jobs and support a prosperous future,” Dalton said.

The DA said it would continue to pressure the municipality to protect its assets, address vandalism and neglect, and ensure municipal property contributes to economic opportunities.