City’s Kensington overhead to underground cabling project under way
12 June 2026
The City’s R4,5 million electricity infrastructure project to convert overhead electricity cables to underground infrastructure in Kensington is progressing well, with this phase of the project expected to be completed on 30 June 2026. The undergrounding of cables and network upgrades is part of our investments to the electricity grid in all areas across the metro.
‘Our teams are working diligently to complete the project on schedule and with minimum disruption to residents. This investment will help protect critical infrastructure and improve the reliability of electricity supply in the area.
‘This project forms part of the City’s R4 billion medium-term capital investment programme aimed at strengthening and modernising Cape Town’s electricity distribution network. Alongside the undergrounding of cables, the project has also included the removal of mid-boundary infrastructure and the upgrade of streetlights to energy-efficient LED technology.
‘The removal of mid-boundary infrastructure improves accessibility for maintenance and emergency repairs by relocating equipment from private properties and difficult-to-access areas into the public road reserve, enabling faster and safer response times for City teams.
‘The City continues to expand the use of underground and alternative cabling solutions because they have a lower resale value, making them less attractive as a theft deterrent. Investing in modern infrastructure supports our long-term goal of providing a more reliable electricity supply while reducing the costs associated with theft, vandalism, and maintenance. We thank our project teams and the Kensington community for their cooperation and support in helping make this project a success,’ said Mayoral Committee Member for Energy, Alderman Xanthea Limberg, following a visit to De Havilland Street and surrounds in the area.
Benefits of underground power infrastructure:
- Underground cable infrastructure is less susceptible to weather related faults such as storms and falling trees.
- Underground cabling reduces the risk of electrical accidents from people, cars and animals encountering the power lines. It also holds the potential to reduce the risk of vandalism and theft.
- Underground cable eliminates the need for poles and overhead power lines in an area, which greatly improves the visual appeal of an urban area.
Report to the City
Streetlight and electricity faults:
Call Centre: 0860 103 089
SMS: 31220
WhatsApp: 060 018 1505
Let’s ACT: Protect Your Power against theft, illegal connections and vandalism
- Report suspicious behaviour to the City’s Public Emergency Communication Centre:
021 480 7700
- Report illegal scrap yards to the ‘Copperheads’:
0800 222 771 (toll free, 24/7, anonymous tip-offs)
End
Published by:
City of Cape Town, Media Office
