Eskom will undertake planned critical maintenance activities at Palmiet and Zuikerbosch Sites. The maintenance of critical electrical infrastructure is essential for ensuring system reliability.

The planned maintenance activities are necessary to improve pump availability and standby capacity. They also enhance operational flexibility across key Rand Water systems, reduce the risk of plant trips and equipment failures. The work is scheduled to take place in May and July 2026. During this period, Rand Water will need to switch off some of its pumps and this will result in water supply interruptions.

Eskom and Rand Water have coordinated the planning of the work and have strategically scheduled it for the winter season, which is traditionally a low-water-demand period. Rand Water will use this opportunity to carry out its own planned maintenance work.

The key maintenance activities scheduled from 29 May to 17 July 2026 include:

• Eskom-related electrical maintenance at the Zuikerbosch and Palmiet systems;
• Installation and upgrading of motors at Zuikerbosch Raw Water Engine Room 4;
• Replacement of critical valves and thrust bearings at Palmiet, Vereeniging and Foresthill systems and
• M11 Pipeline cross-connections within the Mapleton system.

As a result of the planned maintenance activities, customers in the Cities of Johannesburg, Tshwane and Ekurhuleni, as well as the local municipalities of Mogale City, Rand West, Merafong, Rustenburg, Madibeng, Lesedi, Victor Khanye, Govan Mbeki, Thembisile Hani, Midvaal, Emfuleni, Metsimaholo, Ngwathe and Royal Bafokeng Administration may be impacted.

Various industries, mines and direct customers, including Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) may also be affected.

In line with its commitment to operational transparency and excellence, Rand Water has issued a 21-day notice to all affected municipalities, industries and direct customers. The notification is intended to provide all customers with sufficient time to implement contingency measures and minimise potential water supply disruptions to consumers.
Rand Water will issue regular updates during the maintenance period through its official communication channels, including social media platforms to keep customers informed of the progress.