An entire neighborhood has to buy its own power transformer. Elderly residents in the Tynwald and Stordford areas of Harare, around eighty households, have been without electricity for nearly a month after vandals stole a critical transformer. Ward Councilor Denford Ngadziore highlighted that many affected people are pensioners with chronic illnesses needing refrigerated medication.
Facing a national transformer shortage, the power utility ZETDC granted unusual permission for the community to purchase the equipment themselves. Acting General Manager John Dembaremba outlined strict conditions: the unit must be a new 315kVA transformer with a two-year warranty and proper manufacturer certificates. Residents will be reimbursed through deductions on future electricity token purchases over a two year period, but they must surrender all ownership claims to the installed equipment.
This special arrangement requires residents to complete a customer material supplied form at the local depot. The utility will refund the lower amount between its predetermined price and a verified invoice. The approved transformer must also pass specific testing at a designated facility before installation.
Facing a national transformer shortage, the power utility ZETDC granted unusual permission for the community to purchase the equipment themselves. Acting General Manager John Dembaremba outlined strict conditions: the unit must be a new 315kVA transformer with a two-year warranty and proper manufacturer certificates. Residents will be reimbursed through deductions on future electricity token purchases over a two year period, but they must surrender all ownership claims to the installed equipment.
This special arrangement requires residents to complete a customer material supplied form at the local depot. The utility will refund the lower amount between its predetermined price and a verified invoice. The approved transformer must also pass specific testing at a designated facility before installation.
