Letters | Abolish Eskom's monopoly
The greatest incentive that government could give to encourage the installation of solar, as suggested in your editorial would be to abolish the Electricity Act and Eskom’s monopoly.
While granting tax and other incentives to consumers to install solar would be welcome, it is not nearly sufficient to solve our electricity crisis. Firstly, the vast majority of people cannot afford even a rudimentary solar installation. And most importantly, it will never be enough to provide for all our electricity needs.What South Africa needs is the abolishment of Eskom’s monopoly and the creation of a vibrant, decentralised and diverse electricity industry.
Petty subsidies for solar power, increased allowances for feeding into the grid and constant talk of staffing issues at Eskom won’t solve anything. The only thing that will is a complete overhaul of the sector. And, that will only be possible once private companies are allowed to sell electricity to consumers as easily as a grocery store can sell bread.
Consumer choice, competitors and the need to perform well for a profit keep grocery stores and other private sector industries accountable and effective. The same free market mechanisms can provide electricity for the nation.This will not only keep the lights on but may also even lead to a drop in electricity prices as competitors race to appeal to consumers. All that is needed is the political will to abolish Eskom’s dire monopoly.In times of uncertainty you need journalism you can trust.
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