GatVol - August 2023

HOW MUCH A HOME BATTERY AND INVERTER CAN INCREASE YOUR ELECTRICITY BILL

South Africans that plan to install an inverter and battery system without solar generation capacity should be prepared to see a significant increase in their monthly electricity bill.

This is expected, as having the battery gives households access to electricity during periods they otherwise would not have.

However, what I didn’t fully expect was how much more electricity I would use every month after installing a battery and inverter system earlier this year.

Even during Eskom’s lower stages of load-shedding — Stage 1 to Stage 4 — recharging common battery sizes can significantly increase your electricity bill, depending on how much capacity you use and your electricity provider.

MyBroadband calculated how much it would cost to recharge a range of typical lithium-ion battery sizes, from 1.2kWh to 5.5kWh, for households who receive power directly from Eskom or municipal power providers for South Africa’s biggest metros.

These include City Power (Johannesburg), the City of Tshwane, the City of Cape Town, and eThekwini Municipality.

The table below provides the cost of a single recharge of various battery capacities.

Our calculations assume the batteries are lithium-ion with an 80% depth of discharge (DoD) and disregard the efficiency of the charging system. We used the electricity tariff blocks for customers averaging 600kWh per month.

The City of Cape Town charges its residents the most for electricity at around R3.51 per unit (kWh). At this price, a single recharge of a 1.2kWh battery costs R3.37, while a 5.5kWh battery will cost R15.44 to charge fully.

eThekwini Municipality and the City of Tshwane’s charges are also fairly high at R3.00 and R3.08 per kWh, while City Power charges the lowest tariff at R2.41 per unit. Eskom direct customers pay R2.50 per kWh.

Next, it is essential to take the frequency of load-shedding sessions into consideration, as this determines how often you will need to recharge your battery.

The frequency of load-shedding for Eskom’s lower stages can be summarised as follows:

Stage 1 - five bouts per week or 21 sessions each month.

Stage 2 - 11 bouts per week or 42 sessions each month.

Stage 3 - 16 bouts per week or 63 sessions each month.

Stage 4 - 21 bouts per week or 84 each month.

While a single recharge may not seem like a big deal, with prices ranging from R2.31 to R15.44 per cycle depending on the power provider, the cost increases significantly when multiplied by the total monthly recharges.

Although the calculations below assume a worst-case where the battery depletes fully between load-shedding sessions, they are intended to be indicative and illustrate how quickly these costs can escalate.

Taking the smallest and largest battery capacities from our calculations — the 1.2kWh and 5.5kWh units — we calculated the monthly cost of recharging each under load-shedding from Stage 1 to Stage 4.

The results are summarised in the table below.

UNMASKING THE SHADOW S OF CHILD TRAFFICKING

By Zayaan Sarlie Volunteer at Rise Against Domestic Violence SA

Child trafficking, a heinous crime that exploits the most vulnerable members of society, continues to cast a dark shadow across the world, transcending borders, and cultures. Among the countries grappling with this pressing issue is South Africa, where the convergence of historical inequalities, socioeconomic challenges, and criminal networks has created an environment in which children are at risk of being ensnared in a web of exploitation. Child trafficking is a complex issue that comes in numerous forms because of different root causes, thus there is an urgency for multidimensional solutions to protect the innocence and futures of these young lives.

Child trafficking is a prominent global issue that usually sees children (under the age of 18) being coerced, deceived, or abducted or illegal recruited, transported, harboured, received, or transferred for various forms of exploitation.

One of the most prominent reasons of child trafficking is for sexual

exploitation. This form of exploitation is where children, more commonly girls, are forced into prostitution, pornography, or the commercial sex industry. This creates a culture where children are considered as possessions to be used, with no consideration for their well – being, victims of sexual exploitation are often psychologically manipulated through promises of a better future, protection, and economic support.

Perpetrators may also recruit victims by promising the victim’s family economic stability and support through the work of their child. In South Africa trafficking syndicates sexually exploit girls as young as 10 years old, with brothels and other commercial – front establishments as their main bases for operation.

Another popular exploitation is that of labour exploitation. While often overshadowed by other forms of and reasons for trafficking, the extensive issue of child trafficking for labour exploitation preys on the vulnerability of our youth. Broad cultural acceptance of the participation of children in the labour market can serve as a fertile ground for traffickers seeking children to exploit in labour activities.

Child trafficking for labour exploitation sees children working in hazardous and abusive conditions, from the industrial industry to the agricultural and domestic industries because of families encouraging their children to work and children feeling pressurised to contribute to economically to the family. Other reasons for child trafficking include organ harvesting and recruitment for

child soldiers.

Child trafficking is a complex issue driven by a combination of social, economic, political, and cultural factors. With regards to South Africa, the extent of Child Trafficking has increased drastically, and its nature has changed, however, some common drivers of child trafficking include poverty, lack of education and unemployment as the lack of jobs sees the forcing of children into exploitive labour situations. Additionally, gender discrimination notes how often girls are sexually exploited or forced into child marriages whilst boys are utilised for industrial or agricultural labour.

Cultural and societal norms and

practices that undervalue children’s rights also contributes to trafficking and the rise of the technology has introduced new avenues for trafficking which includes online recruitment, grooming and the distribution of explicit content. Lastly, because of the lack of education, a lack of awareness may also be a driving force as some people may not fully understand the risks and repercussions of child trafficking. Hence, by understanding the underlying reasons for child trafficking, societies can work toward creating stronger safety nets for vulnerable children and families.

Child trafficking is a blight on humanity that tarnishes the promise of childhood and the potential of future generations. Eradicating Child trafficking requires a collective commitment to address its root causes and offer comprehensive support to survivors. It also demands cooperation, robust legal frameworks, and a comprehensive approach.

Governments and non-governmental organizations should work to strengthen laws and allocate resources to the combatting of child trafficking. Additionally, by raising public awareness about child trafficking and educating communities about the risks and repercussions of this issue, the risk of child trafficking may be reduced and by increasing

cross – border cooperation through the strengthening of collaboration, the disruption of trafficking networks may also occur.

Individually, child trafficking may also be combatted through self –awareness and education of this issue, the monitoring of online activity of our children, and the empowerment of youth by teaching children about their rights and how to protect themselves as well and encouraging them to report suspicious behaviour or attempts of exploitation.

Combating child trafficking requires a sustained and united effort from various sectors of society. The combating of child trafficking is a test of our collective humanity. Every step we take, every voice we amplify, and every survivor we empower brings us closer to a world where children are no longer preyed upon but cherished, where innocence is protected, and where their potential is celebrated.

Through unwavering dedication, collaboration, and a commitment to the rights and dignity of every child, we forge a path towards eradicating child trafficking and forging a brighter future for generations to come.

LIQUID BULLET SUPPORTS THE FIGHT AGAINST CHILD TRAFFICKING

D r i n k e r b e l l & E m b o c r a f t

A f t e r P e a c h ' s d a u g h t e r s d r i n k w a s s p i k e d , h e r m i s s i o n h a s b e e n t o p r o t e c t a s m a n y p e o p l e a s p o s s i b l e f r o m d r i n k s p i k i n g a n d a t t h e s a m e t i m e , e m p o w e r w o m e n . A n d s o a r o u n d h e r d i n i n g r o o m t a b l e , t h e p a t e n t e d D r i n k e r b e l l w a s b o r n .

T h e e a s y t o u s e D r i n k e r b e l l i s i n s i d e a s c r u n c h i e t h a t c a n b e w o r n a r o u n d y o u r w r i s t , p o p p e d i n t o y o u r h a n d b a g o r u s e d t o t i e y o u r h a i r u p T h e w a t e r p r o o f c o v e r a n d s i l i c o n e , r e u s a b l e s t r a w s t o p s a n y l i q u i d , p i l l o r p o w d e r f r o m b e i n g d r o p p e d i n t o t h e d r i n k .

E v e r y D r i n k e r b e l l i s l o v i n g c r e a t e d b y t h e w o m e n f r o m t h e c o m m u n i t y a t E m b o c r a f t T r a i n i n g C e n t r e T r u s t i n o r d e r f o r t h e m t o g e n e r a t e a n i n c o m e f o r t h e m s e l v e s a n d t h e i r f a m i l i e s

O u r v i s i o n f o r D r i n k e r b e l l i s t o b e i n m o r e b r i c k a n d m o r t a r e a r d a s m a n y c o r p o r a t e s a s p o s s i b l e t o h e b u i t h t !

www.embocraft.co.za

So how do we start?

Let’s start with the obvious Do you have burglar guards and slam lock security gates? This is the basic entry point for home security. They can be purchased relatively cheaply either online or at a hardware store The second most obvious thing is leaving doors windows and even garage doors unlocked or even open is an invitation for an opportunistic thief. If you leave protected windows open for fresh air do not leave things like cell phones laptops and other valuables near the open window.

Keep your household and car keys in a safe place where no one can reach it with a fishing rod. Thieves are clever and they will have had a look before deciding to rob you. If your keys are lost or stolen get the exterior door locks replaced immediately. Don’t think for one minute I have a spare set. Someone stole the keys for a specific reason. In all my years in the police force we found that this is the easiest and safest way for thieves to break in.

Get an alarm system. You can get the cheap horn type-if someone opens a door the horn goes off. Hopefully the burglar gets the fright of his life and leaves-to the very expensive security company with armed response type. For every budget there is a security system to cater for your needs. CCTV and door cameras are wonderful and offer you as the home owner a means of detecting unwanted intruders. Outdoor garden beams are an added bonus.

Get a guard dog. A trained dog can be the best protection for you. A small yapper will advise you of unwanted guests. Something I advise people who ask me about dogs is to go to training classes. Speak to your local dog trainer and book into his classes. Another thing to consider is a Gas Gun if you catch an intruder in your house he will be going about his business quietly if you fire the gas gun into the air they will get the fright of their lives and take off running

GENERAL TIPS

Keep your home well lit. always have light on at night and place motion detector lights outside. When you are out at night make sure you leave the television on and the blinds or curtains drawn.

Install deadbolts on the external doors. It makes it harder for the would be burglar to break into your house

Join the local neibourhood watch. They can keep you abreast on what is happening in your area and can be a help in time of trouble. If you can join the community policing forum or the SA community crime watch. Please take the serial number so your valuables and videos of jewelry so that in case of a burglary you can offer all of this to the insurance company as proof of the items that are stolen. Install a safe if you can to keep jewelry and cash in.

Keep a cheap cell phone fully charged with numbers of loved ones and the police pre-loaded. Hide the phone because in the event of a robbery or home invasion you have a way of calling for help.

Lastly, Have your home address clearly displayed outside so that the first responders know where to find you.

These are all preventive measures and I sincerely hope that you never have to use them

STAY SAFE, BRAD

In todays world protecting your home is a necessity, making you and your family feel safe and secure. The need to reduce and eliminate home invasions has become a major issue for home owners

BREWING A BRIGHTER FUTURE: Unemployed youth embrace barista training

Famous Brands, which owns some of South Africa’s best known food brands, is fighting youth unemployment and changing young peoples’ lives – one cup of coffee at a time.

Together with the Youth Employment Service (YES), the company’s Brewing a Better Future programme has already given more than 210 previously unemployed youth the chance to forge a career as a barista.

The programme has a strong focus on empowering young women. In South Africa, it’s estimated that 47% of women are economically inactive, compared to 35,6% of men. As such, more than 70% of the Brewing a Better Future participants are female. After their training, the young brewers are placed in franchise outlets like Wimpy, Mugg & Bean, Netcafe and Vovo Telo.

The effect of their newfound employment is profound. YES Youth are often the only employed person in their household, and this holds true for the Famous Brands cohort. With 80% of the Brewing a Better Future programme youth having dependents, and 77% coming from grant recipient households, a cup of coffee can hold true transformation. When a single youth gets employment and training in

a highly in-demand skill, their income benefits their entire families, and pours much-needed resources back into their communities.

One of the aspiring baristas, Nomcebo ‘Tiyo’ Qwabe, from Nkandla in KwaZuluNatal, was born deaf – but she’s not letting her disability stand in the way of forging a brand-new career in the world of coffee.

Tiyo’s experience of the YES barista programme at Famous Brands is expanding her world: “I’m gaining new skills, connecting with different people, and learning to be a team player. I feel excited and proud of myself as this programme opens up new opportunities for me.” Tiyo not only has new skills that will be invaluable for her future, but her 12-month quality work experience has also allowed her to generate an income to support her family.

Tiyo’s story is a powerful reminder that creating accessible employment programmes can truly change lives, and with two billion cups of coffee consumed across the globe every day, this barista training is a future-facing initiative. “Barista skills are incredibly empowering. With this programme, young people can go from no prior education or training, to having a skill that’s in high demand around the world right now. It’s also the type of skill that youth can leverage to create their own small business, which means it encourages upward mobility at every level,” says YES Chief Operating Officer Leanne Emery Hunter.

The programme participants are currently competing in a YES-hosted Barista Championship. One challenge of training as a barista is getting access to commercial-grade equipment to practice the full range of skills needed to make anything from a humble cappuccino to a gingerbread latte with confidence. In the run-up to the Barista Championship, the Famous Brands team decided to offer additional training sessions at their Regional Centres of

Excellence to ensure the young baristas have plenty of time to practice their soon-to-be world-class skills.

Famous Brands National Coffee Training Manager Danielle Stapowicz says, “Young people have so much drive to succeed, all they need is a foot in the door. At a time when youth unemployment is sky-high, we are proud to be working with YES for another year of unlocking youth potential. Not only is it good for the youth, it’s good for our business, and for the country as a whole.”  As the youth of the Brewing a Better Future programme turn their skills into new careers, their passion and energy may just invigorate the entire economy like a strong cup of coffee.

The FINAL Word

In the past week the crime stats were released, South Africa has 68 murders a day. That is about 25000 murders a year or 34 per 100,000. When you compare the rate to the rest of the world-6 per 100000-South Africa is painted as a very violent country. The crimes that are reported as murders do not include farm murders, Hijackings or CIT robberies where the guards are killed. If you add to these figures the drug problem among the youth and the spiraling unemployment problem we have things look bleak.

It is very easy to get despondent. It seems like the country has lost its moral compass. So what do you and I do about the situation? Is there a solution to our problems other than abandoning the country? First off I think we as South Africans black and white need to acknowledge that both the ANC government and yes ourselves are to blame. The ANC because they have only had the interests of the ANC at heart-and remember they came to power via the barrel of a gun. The old adage is violence begets violence and maybe that is what we are reaping.

Ourselves because we allowed them to get away with the corruption that has marked their reign. Consider this when they took over Eskom was regarded as one of the finest power generators in the world, our rail service was the envy of many, a pot hole was never left in a state of disrepair and our hospitals were held in high regard. One only has to think about Chris Barnard the pioneer of heart transplants and the positive publicity that this achievement generated.

One shudders to think that it was only 30 years ago we were cheering a new dawn as Nelson Mandela we released from prison and went on to become the first president of our liberated country.

I was privileged to be invited to the multi party moonshot pact conference and I really hope that the things they spoke about and the plans that they made come to fruition. However there are a lot of egos in that group of leaders I hope they can make this work as we as a country needs it.

Until next time

Martyn Smithers