The Freedom Front Plus (VF Plus) supports the principle of independent power generation as an essential step toward energy security and sustainable growth.
However, the party cannot support the Ekurhuleni Metro Council’s latest proposal to enter into another 20-year agreement with an Independent Power Producer (IPP) — especially without clear evidence that existing projects are delivering results.
Despite the Freedom Front Plus’s objections to it during the latest council meeting, the majority of councillors adopted the proposal.
No credible performance reports demonstrating tangible progress have been tabled to Council since it approved previous IPP agreements in 2016 and 2022. There is currently no confirmed tariff relief for residents or businesses, nor evidence of improved energy stability within the Metro.
Should Eskom reintroduce load-shedding for some reason, the previously approved agreements will do nothing to mitigate power cuts in Ekurhuleni.
Before residents and taxpayers are tied to another long-term contract, the Freedom Front Plus demands full transparency from the Metro regarding the performance and outcomes of existing IPP agreements.
It is irresponsible to approve new energy projects based on projections and promises, while the public is plagued by daily power outages.
Progressive policy means nothing without delivery, accountability and measurable impact.
So, in the Freedom Front Plus’s view, the process has been rushed and any decisions taken before the tabling of concrete results, which have been independently verified, are premature.
