GEORGE NEWS - Members of the public have noted that some streetlights remain on after load shedding. In a statement, George Municipality explains why this happens.

Streetlights are switched on and off via an automated relay system located in a central control room. 

Due to the intermittent load shedding, this equipment has started taking strain and the Electrotechnical Department is putting in additional processes to try and ensure that streetlights are switched off.

"It must also be noted that during load shedding we have experienced repeated theft of cable, which affects the signalling at the control centre. Around 3 000 of our streetlights have also been fitted with LED which use less energy, require less maintenance and have a longer lifespan compared to incandescent and other light types," the statement reads.

"We appreciate the public taking the time to phone in to our division should they note that streetlights remain on between 09:00 and 17:00, and remain off between 19:00 and 06:00."

Repairs on streetlights

When streetlights have to be repaired, they need to be switched on so that the municipal teams can see which ones are not burning. Sometimes, the automatic switchover function (that switches the lights off in the day) is not reactivated when the work is finished.

One electrical box usually serves a few streets, so if residents do not see people working, the workers may just be out of sight. However, teams would seldom work for more than a day in an area, except when a project is being rolled out or several lights are being installed or fixed.

In general, if streetlights are burning during the day for more than a one-day cycle, please report it during office hours on 044 801 9222 or 044 874 3917 so that the department can investigate.

Please phone in to report streetlights that are on in daytime to 044 801 9222 or 044 801 9202 or on the WhatsApp number 067 350 3295 (available Monday to Friday from 07:45 to 16:30).

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