This is probably one of the most boring of all photos, but the topic is one of the most important to my day-to-day living. That is, the availability (or lack) of electricity.

When I was assigned to South Africa, I was pleased to know that most PC accommodations are supplied with electricity. Not all rural areas have electricity at this time, but great progress has been made in the last couple of decades.

With regard to electricity payment, most homes in most rural villages operate on a pay-as-you-go basis, kind of like filling up the gas tank in a car. One can buy a little or a lot at one time and replenish as needed.

The picture above is a picture of the meter which indicates how many electrical units are remaining, again much like the fuel gauge in a car. The 0.00 means there is no more electricity, the account is empty — not a pretty sight. And what’s just as bad is that it has happened more than once where I live.

The units can be replenished by purchasing more from specified shops or from an over-the-phone banking account, both of which would have arrangements with Eskom, the country’s electricity provider. For the past few days, Eskom’s server has been down, so such purchases can’t be made in the shops or over the phone. Fortunately, John had the foresight earlier to buy battery operated lights and a gas-operated camp stove. We are currently unable to use the fan, cell phone charger and the refrigerator. Bummer! Might as well be camping.