The Western Cape Department of Local Government has released the findings of its updated “Basket of Services” research project, which recommends increasing the free basic electricity and water allocations for indigent citizens.

This Department says the study is a critical update to an initial 2019 report, marking a shift in how the provincial government views the provision of Free Basic Services (FBS).

MEC Anton Bredell says they are moving away from a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach toward a Co-responsibility Model.

“This involves working across provincial departments to ensure that basic services act as a springboard for social mobility. The goal is to help indigent citizens break the cycle of poverty, moving from basic survival to a dignified life where they can eventually exit the indigent program and contribute economically to society.”

The research highlights that current legislative minimum Free Basic Services, such as 6kl of water and 50kWh of electricity, are increasingly insufficient in the current context.

“While most Western Cape municipalities meet or exceed these minimums, the study found that rising tariffs and inflation mean indigent households often exhaust their free allocations mid-month, forcing them to choose between essential services and other basic needs like food or medicine.”

To bridge this gap, the study has recommended a recalibration of service levels to create an “Enabling Dignified Basket of Services.”

Key suggestions include:

• Water: Increasing free allocations to 10.5kl per household to better reflect health and hygiene needs.
• Energy: Moving toward a 150kWh monthly threshold to support modern household requirements.
• Connectivity: Recognising internet access as an essential service to enable job-seeking and educational advancement.

The City of Cape Town already offers a free water allocation of 15kl per household for indigent persons, and up to 60kWh of free electricity.

Bredell says his Department will now enter a period of intensive consultation with municipalities to ensure that increases in service levels do not compromise municipal finances.

They will also partner with other provincial departments to explore how resources can supplement municipal efforts.

He says following consultations, a phased implementation plan will be developed, which will need to strike a balance between the long-term financial sustainability of municipalities, while supporting those who need it most.