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Friday, 04 October 2024: The Generation Operational Recovery Plan has successfully kept loadshedding suspended, achieving 191 consecutive days of uninterrupted power supply since 26 March 2024. Operational efficiency has met summer expectations, with unplanned outages averaging 11 181MW over the past week, compared to 14 743MW during the same period last year, marking an improvement...
The Government of National Unity offers an opportunity to take practical steps
Government ''deepening conversation'' on draft IRP 2023
Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, says government is “deepening the conversation” on the draft Integrated Resource Plan (IRP 2023).
The Minister was speaking during the 2024 Windaba Conference, being held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, on Thursday.
“We are doing a review. [IRP 2023] had gone out for public consultation; received 4000 submissions; 250 of those have been substantive - and I said to the team, we will sit with those who have made substantive contributions so we are not re-opening the window of public consultation. We are simply deepening that conversation because some of the submissions raise issues around the assumptions and the modelling and therefore how you arrive at the aggregate of the [energy] mix.
“It is in our interest as government to listen to the sector and the experts…because beyond these ones who adopt it, it’s an IRP that represents the country,” he said.
The minister added that those engagements seek to address some “quantitative expressions” in some aspects of the plan.
Turning to the renewable energy sector, Dr Ramokgopa emphasised that the department is engaging with all stakeholders in the energy sector, to find solutions for South Africa’s energy ambitions.
“It is our intention to ensure that we scale up the renewable energy share of the energy mix in the country. We have had conversations with the nuclear sector. We have had conversations with the gas players. We have had conversations with those in the renewable energy space [and] we will have conversations with those in the coal space.
“It’s important that we move away from an idea that the one solution is better than the other,” he said.
With regard to South Africa’s commitment to lowering carbon emissions, the Minister said the country wants to “green the South African economy”.
However, that transition must take into cognisance the effects it may have on certain sectors.
“There’s the socio-economic elements. So, as we do this, we’re looking to broaden the floor of industrialisation - reskilling people; skilling people so that there’s justice in the Just Transition.
“You don’t want to decimate an economy because you want to transition; put people into conditions of abject poverty because they are unemployed as a result of the displacement of certain technologies being replaced by others and not taking account of what are the implications from a socio-economic point of view,” Ramokgopa said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 10/03/2024 - 11:26
“We have rats that are as big as cats here”
Lesotho Highlands Water Project Tunnel undergoes maintenance
Water and Sanitation Minister Pemmy Majodina and her counterpart from the Kingdom of Lesotho, Minister Mohlomi Moleko, have expressed optimism on the state of readiness for the two countries to carry out the six-month maintenance closure of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP) tunnel.
“Given the temporary halt in water deliveries, it is essential to use water sparingly and avoid wastage during this time. Despite preparations already made by government to ensure continued supply of water, it is crucial that we collectively minimise the impact on all of us through responsible consumption of water during this time,” Majodina said.
The two Ministers held a virtual meeting on Thursday, 26 September 2024 with a view to assess the state of readiness ahead of the tunnel closure from 01 October 2024 to 31 March 2025, which is aimed at undertaking maintenance work on the transfer and delivery tunnels of the LHWP.
The planned maintenance forms part of the ongoing commitment by the two governments to ensure long-term sustainability and integrity of the infrastructure of the LHWP.
“During the discussions between the two Ministers, there was a palpable agreement that the maintenance work should be carried out effectively and within the scheduled six-month period.
“The work required to be undertaken during the closure of the tunnel includes grit-blasting the steel-lined section around the entire circumference and re-applying corrosion protection on the tunnel lining, as well as other maintenance and repair work identified during the 2019 maintenance shutdown,” the Department of Water and Sanitation said on Monday.
This work is expected to protect the infrastructure for another 20 - 30 years.
The closure of the LHWP tunnel will affect the Phase I Water Transfer and Delivery Tunnels. This will result in the total shutdown of the water delivery system for six months.
“During this time, there will be no transfer of water from the Katse Dam to Muela Hydropower Station (Transfer Tunnel – 45km), which will result in the stoppage of power generation at the Muela Hydropower Station in Lesotho.
“Additionally, there will be no delivery of water from Lesotho to South Africa through the 37km delivery tunnel. (Delivery Tunnel South 15km and Delivery Tunnel North 22km).
“Despite the impact on water transfer, both Ministers have assured that during the six-month maintenance period, citizens should not be alarmed, as there have been comprehensive measures taken by the Department of Water and Sanitation, working collaboratively with municipalities and water boards to ensure water security through water transfer within the Integrated Vaal River System (IVRS),” the department said.
Both Ministers acknowledged that although the tunnel closure will be a short-term inconvenience, it is crucial to undertake it in order to prevent long-term inconveniences in the future.
In preparation for this planned closure, both governments took proactive measures to ensure that the maintenance will be conducted smoothly, with minimal disruption and to the benefits that accrue to Basotho and South Africans from the LHWP.
“This proactive measure has allowed South Africa to receive most of its annual water deliveries, ensuring that both the water supply and the royalties revenue that Lesotho receives from those deliveries are minimally impacted.
“The Lesotho government has also put in place concrete plans to secure additional electricity supply in the region and to ensure that reliable supply of electricity continues in Lesotho during this period,” the department said.
To mitigate the impact of the tunnel closure on water availability in the affected areas in South Africa, the IVRS, which consists of 14 interconnected dams, including the Vaal, Sterkfontein, Grootdraai and Bloemhof Dams (which is augmented by the Katse and Mohale Dams in Lesotho), has enough water for the duration of the maintenance period.
“The dams are linked to each other by a system of rivers, canals, tunnels, pipelines, and pump stations. The Department of Water and Sanitation manages the IVRS as a system, in which water can be transferred from one part of the system to another, as and when required.
“The Government of South Africa has undertaken a thorough analysis to assess the risk to the performance of the IVRS because of the tunnel closure and to determine the impact of the tunnel closure on water availability to users.
“The analysis confirmed that the impact of the tunnel closure on the overall IVRS will be minimal, as most dams in the IVRS will be relatively full at the time of closure,” the department said.
Comprehensive technical and operational plans have been put in place to ensure minimal disruption to the everyday lives of the people in both countries.
“All resources for the implementation of the maintenance work have been mobilised, and preparations are ready for the work ahead,” the department said. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Mon, 09/30/2024 - 14:42
GNU working to build an inclusive economy
Deputy President Paul Mashatile has reiterated government’s commitment to building an inclusive economy in South Africa and has assured Londoners that the Government of National Unity (GNU) is working around the clock to make this a reality.
The country’s second-in-command was speaking on Monday at the Bloomberg roundtable discussion in London, during his second leg of a weeklong working visit, which kickstarted today.
The Deputy President is in the United Kingdom to engage with leaders with the hope of improving trade and investment relations between the two nations, following a successful visit to Ireland.
“My delegation and I are here in the United Kingdom to build on the outcomes of the State Visit by President Cyril Ramaphosa in 2022, with a specific focus on how we can work together to ensure inclusive economic growth, address and respond to climate change challenges and the Just Transition, and ensure a balance and increase of trade between our two countries,” he told the attendees.
Top of the agenda, he said, is advancing inclusive and sustainable economic growth, addressing poverty and the high cost of living and strengthening bilateral partnerships in several sectors.
These sectors include trade, investment, skills development, science, innovation, tourism, and the Just Energy Transition.
“All of these major sectors aim to advance the GNU’s strategic priorities of achieving sustainable economic growth, alleviating poverty and the high cost of living, and developing an ethical, capable developmental State.
“Our people voted for us to collaborate to achieve their goal of creating better employment opportunities and equal economic growth in all facets of society.
“The GNU is the best tactical option for us to move the country ahead, putting our differences aside for the benefit of our great nation,” he said.
He assured those who have business interests in South Africa and potential investors that the GNU is working together to create a conducive environment for businesses to strive.
“As the new government, we will continue to hold the United Kingdom in a special place in our hearts, not only due to our historical ties but also because of the immense potential for collaboration and growth that exists between our two countries.”
By fostering stronger trade and investment relationships, he said the State aims to create a “win-win” situation for both nations that will bring economic prosperity and stability.
He acknowledged that both countries are facing various challenges impacting stagnant economic growth affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, the energy crisis and the Russia-Ukraine war.
“South Africa is committed to reviving our economy and in this regard, we have made notable progress in terms of economic growth and development.”
The Deputy President urged United Kingdom businesses to deepen their investment ties with South Africa as the country works around the clock to revive its economy.
“We assure the investors that investments in South Africa are secure. Our business environment is stable as is the political environment and this is supported policy certainty and regulatory safeguards.”
He told them that government is boosting its investment in electricity generation and drawing up plans that are now being implemented, to allow more private participation in the country’s freight-rail network and reform its byzantine work permit regime.
According to the Deputy President, measures are in place to deal with load shedding which have already shown results.
“As a country, we are also looking at expanding our investment in the United Kingdom because we consider you to be a major economic powerhouse with a diverse and dynamic market that offers numerous opportunities for our businesses to expand and thrive.”
He is of the view that enhancing investment relationship with the United Kingdom will open new sources of funding and expertise that can support key sectors of our economy, such as infrastructure, manufacturing, and technology.
“By working together, we can leverage each other’s strengths and resources to promote economic growth, create job opportunities, and improve the standard of living for all our citizens.
“We are committed to fostering a strong and mutually beneficial relationship with the United Kingdom government, based on shared values of democracy, freedom, and economic prosperity,” he added. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Mon, 09/30/2024 - 14:57
Government activities for the week 30 September – 4 October
On Monday, 30 September, Deputy President Paul Mashatile is in the United Kingdom for the second leg of his working visit. The purpose of the visit is to improve trade and investment relations between South Africa and the United Kingdom. The visit will conclude on Friday, 4 October.
On Monday, 30 September, Minister of Electricity and Energy Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa hosts the Renewable Energy Seminar in Midrand, Gauteng.
On Tuesday, 1 October, President Cyril Ramaphosa will launch, on behalf of government, Phase 2 of the Business and Government Partnership.
From Tuesday, 1 October, Public Service and Administration Minister Mzamo Buthelezi leads the South African delegation at the International Conference on Theory and Practice of Electronic Governance (ICEGOV). The conference ends on 4 October.
On Tuesday, 1 October, Employment and Labour Minister Nomakhosazana Meth briefs media on inspections and compliance raids in South Africa.
On Wednesday, 2 October, the Deputy Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Dr Namane Dickson Masemola, leads an important oversight visit to the Northern Cape, focusing on the ZF Mgcawu and Pixley Ka Seme District Municipalities.
On Friday, the South African Navy will host the SA Navy Festival in the East Dockyard, Simon’s Town, over the period 4 – 6 October. – SAnews.gov.za
Matona
Mon, 09/30/2024 - 14:43
Renewable energy programme to be accelerated
South Africa is determined to be “ultra aggressive” in onboarding renewable energy sources.
This is according to Electricity and Energy Minister, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa.
The Minister was speaking on Monday during the Ministerial Renewable Energy Seminar held in Midrand, under the theme: "Advancing Renewable Energy: A Comprehensive Review of the IPP Procurement Process".
Ramokgopa told the gathering that it is in the “collective interest” to accelerate the renewable energy programme.
“We must be ultra aggressive in the onboarding of renewables. It must be on steroids. But we can only achieve that if we resolve the issues that you are going to share with us today. I think the future is renewables.
“We must resolve the issues of permitting and licensing, and the speed because capital has got choices. It’s not like capital is waiting and waiting for South Africa to resolve its problems. It is in our interest to ensure that we are greedy in how we want to consume this capital, and that greed will be displayed in the manner and the enthusiasm with which we are resolving the major impediments in this instance.
“We want to capture all these opportunities… for the greater good of the region,” Ramokgopa said.
WATCH | Renewable Energy Seminar
In order to build a strong renewable energy sector, “we must build confidence in the system”, the Minister stressed.
“We are going to be a bit more aggressive in onboarding renewables but I think that statement is hollow if we are not able to address the attendant challenges, the inherent weaknesses in the system.
"We must build confidence in the system going into the future, firstly, by illustrating our ability to resolve the challenges that have afflicted the previous bid windows.
“[Being aggressive means] going out to procure the megawatts that are of a scale and proportion that we have not done before. But if we have not resolved the inherent challenges, that statement will be put to waste because we will not be able to achieve that which we desire.
“So it’s important that we have that conversation and I urge you [stakeholders] to be very candid,” he said.
The Minister said his department wants to gather as much information as possible to improve on South Africa’s Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (IPPPP).
“We are here to listen on how best we can improve. Once we have listened… we will action. We really want industry to thrive for us to make South Africa the preferred destination for this capital [and] for us to run the most ambitious and successful of all renewable programmes from a public procurement point of view.
“[We want] the best one, not just on the continent, not just in the Global South but something that is of envy across the globe,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 09/30/2024 - 11:41
Over 100 march to Kariega Town Hall to raise concerns about climate change
Friday, 27 September 2024: The 2024 Eskom Expo International Science Fair (ISF) reached an exhilarating conclusion, with our learners being awarded substantial cash prizes for their meticulously researched and methodologically sound projects. Held at the Emperors Palace Convention Centre in Kempton Park, the fair brought together the brightest young scientists from across South Africa and...
Friday, 27 September 2024: The Generation Operational Recovery Plan continues to ensure loadshedding remains suspended. Eskom has achieved more than six months (184 consecutive days) of uninterrupted power supply since 26 March 2024. Operational efficiency has remained in line with summer expectations, with unplanned outages averaging 11 911MW over the past seven days, compared to...
Next Engineers, a global college-and career-readiness programme working to increase the diversity of young people in engineering, celebrated the graduation of its first-ever Engineering Academy learners in Johannesburg, South Africa on Friday, September 27. The graduation ceremony marked the programme's contribution towards bridging the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) skills gap in the country through exposing learners to hands-on engineering experiences and career pathways.
The 37 learners from 15 high schools across Johannesburg who completed the programme, many of whom plan to study towards an engineering-related qualification at university or technical higher learning institutions, were joined by their families at University of Witwatersrand, Sturrock Park Sports Hall, to celebrate their achievements. Launched in 2022, PROTEC, University of Witwatersrand, and Kutitiva Foundation are the educational partners for the local Next Engineers programme, and local GE Vernova engineers and employees actively engage with Academy participants through hands-on, skill-based volunteering.
“We are proud to see our first cohort of learners graduating and wish them all a successful learning trajectory in the next stage of their education journey,” said Matsi Eseu, South Africa HR Director for GE Vernova. “At GE Vernova, we believe education is a significant driver of economic inclusion and it's inspiring to see the positive impact the Next Engineers programme is having, not just in empowering tomorrow's engineers who will solve society's most pressing challenges but also in increasing the diversity of young people, particularly females, in the engineering sector. We extend our gratitude to all those involved in the Engineering Academy.”
Learners who complete the Engineering Academy program and enroll in a qualified engineering or engineering-related degree programme receive financial aid to support them as they continue on their paths to becoming engineers.
Balan Moodley, CEO of PROTEC, said, "I extend my heartfelt congratulations to each and every graduate in this programme. Their commitment and hard work inspire us all, and I have every confidence they will continue to make a positive impact in the field of engineering and beyond. I also want to express my sincere gratitude to GE Vernova in Johannesburg for their unwavering support and partnership throughout this journey. Together, we have laid the groundwork for a brighter future in engineering, and I am excited to see the continued success of Next Engineers in empowering young minds."
The Next Engineers: Engineering Academy is a transformative learning experience designed for learners aged 15 to 18. Through a rigorous curriculum, immersive design challenges, and career coaching, participants learn to think and act like engineers.
Key programme highlights:
Johannesburg, South Africa, was among the first four locations to launch Next Engineers, with a $2.5 million (R44.6 million) investment from the GE Foundation in 2021. To date, Next Engineers, which also includes programming for learners in grades 8-12, has reached more than 3,500 learners across Johannesburg.
STEM training and education, such as Next Engineers, is helping to solve global challenges while also lifting up communities through economic opportunities. Next Engineers is not the only way GE Vernova in South Africa has committed to supporting the next generation of STEM talent. GE Vernova's South Africa External Bursary Programme has offered comprehensive bursaries to the tune of $5.4 million (R95.6 million) to support over 648 beneficiaries pursuing a Bachelor of Science, Commerce or Arts qualification from 2020 to date. The bursaries are aimed at alleviating the financial strain of tertiary students and covers the tuition, accommodation, textbook costs, and a monthly stipend over the period of study.
For more information about Next Engineers and the Engineering Academy, visit http://apo-opa.co/3BmFfKp.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of GE.
Media contacts:
GE Vernova
Kashumba Macombe
Communications Specialist
GE Vernova
Kashumba.Macombe@ge.com
PROTEC
Annette Reed
Fundraising and Business Development
Programme for Technological Careers (PROTEC)
+27 82 334 2939
annette@protec.org.za
About Next Engineers:
Next Engineers, a program originally funded by the GE Foundation in 2021, now known as the GE Aerospace Foundation, is a college- and career-readiness program dedicated to inspiring and preparing the next generation of engineers. Through innovative programs, mentorship, and community partnerships, we empower young minds to shape a better future through engineering.
About GE Vernova:
GE Vernova Inc. (NYSE: GEV) is a purpose-built global energy company that includes Power, Wind, and Electrification segments and is supported by its accelerator businesses. Building on over 130 years of experience tackling the world's challenges, GE Vernova is uniquely positioned to help lead the energy transition by continuing to electrify the world while simultaneously working to decarbonize it. GE Vernova helps customers power economies and deliver electricity that is vital to health, safety, security, and improved quality of life. GE Vernova is headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, U.S., with approximately 75,000 employees across 100+ countries around the world. Supported by the Company's purpose, The Energy to Change the World, GE Vernova technology helps deliver a more affordable, reliable, sustainable, and secure energy future. Learn more: www.GEVernova.com and LinkedIn (http://apo-opa.co/3zwmm7b).
About PROTEC:
PROTEC was established in 1982 by a group of engineers from the South African Institute of Civil Engineers to respond to the challenges facing the education system and to address representation across all socio-economic and racial groups in STEM careers. To date, PROTEC has seen more than 40,000 learners complete the Learner Excellence Programme. Based in Randburg, PROTEC has 17 branches and projects in 6 out of the 9 provinces. Our aim is to extend the programme to all 9 provinces. The programme targets learners from Grade 4 to Grade 12 in specifically Science, Mathematics, and English. Teachers who teach these subjects as well as coding and robotics, benefit from development and support that uses a centre-based and classroom support model. Find us on www.PROTEC.org.za, Facebook (http://apo-opa.co/47HJTyw), LinkedIn (http://apo-opa.co/3Y019Mg) and Instagram.
Thursday, 26 September 2024: An array of exciting prizes from full bursaries to cash prizes, laptops and tablet computers were awarded to top performing innovators at this year’s Eskom Expo International Science Fair. The fair is being held at the Convention Centre at Emperors Palace in Kempton Park from 23 to 27 September 2024, and...
Power has not been restored for a year to Dunoon fire victims
Ramokgopa attends BRICS Energy Ministers Meeting
The Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, has called on the BRICS Plus bloc of countries to work together to assist and support member countries to tackle energy challenges.
The Minister was delivering his opening remarks at the 9th Annual BRICS [Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa] Energy Ministers' Meeting in Moscow, Russia.
“We believe that this BRICS group of like-minded country members has a huge potential, and working together will strengthen this resolve through cooperation on energy security.
“[It will] also provide an opportunity to join efforts to annihilate the challenges diagnosed during the BRICS 2023 Summit held in South Africa, such as addressing the lack or absence of integrated energy policy framework, diversification and beneficiation at source of critical minerals, infrastructure development, manufacturing, technology transfer and intellectual property, scaling up energy efficiency, mobilisation of finance and investment, as well as skills and capacity building, amongst others,” Ramokgopa said.
He called on the member countries to “tap and dig deeper into various capabilities and strengths" to ensure mutual support in harnessing the individual potential each country has at its disposal.
“To mention a few opportunities, it is mining and beneficiation of critical minerals, and rare-earth elements required to power the green economy, [expand] hydro power potential, promising hydrogen solutions and its derivatives, gas, nuclear - including small modular reactors, renewables, storage, biofuels, as well as clean coal, and carbon capture utilisation and storage,” the Minister said.
Ramokgopa highlighted that the meeting of BRICS Energy Ministers comes at a critical time, as countries ponder ways to transition towards low carbon economies.
“This meeting comes at a critical phase where our countries are grappling with the challenge of balancing developmental goals with energy transition pathways.
“We must ensure that these transitions safeguard energy sovereignty and security, promote sustainable economic development, facilitate universal access and respond effectively to environmental imperatives, all the while ensuring no one is left behind,” he said.
He told the meeting that the expansion of the BRICS bloc of countries is a “clear affirmation of the group's growing significance and influence in the global energy agenda”.
“This is a pivotal moment, positioning BRICS to reshape, refocus, and reset the global energy architecture to ensure energy access, security, affordability, and eradicate energy poverty and promote a just energy transition.
“For us as South Africa, we see this as an opportune moment to clearly articulate our collective position as the developing nations that will enable us to continue to use our energy resources through innovative technologies that allow us to move from high emitting to low emitting energy systems, and thus achieve carbon-neutrality or net-zero at a pace and scale that is in line with our different national circumstances and capabilities.
“In this regard, we want to reiterate that our approach to an inclusive and people centred energy transition is informed by the need to maintain energy security in support of socio-economic objectives,” Ramokgopa said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 09/26/2024 - 14:42
Thursday, 26 September 2024: In a first for South Africa, Eskom is leading the way in sustainable practices by incorporating recycled legacy coal ash into road construction at its Kusile Power Station in Mpumalanga. This innovative initiative, launched by Eskom Rotek Industries (ERI), aims to enhance operational efficiency while reinforcing Eskom’s commitment to sustainability. Eskom...
Cofimvaba villager Bongani Mgqebisa has given up waiting for an RDP house
Wednesday, 25 September 2024: Excitement filled the air as the 44th Eskom Expo International Science Fair (ISF) opened its doors, welcoming young scientists with an electrifying line-up of activities, including robotics and coding workshops, and riveting science shows. The opening of the ISF saw 308 South African young scientists, along with 18 international peers representing...
Nersa publishes Eskom’s revenue application for the next three financial years
The National Energy Regulator of South Africa (Nersa) on Monday published Eskom’s multi-year price determination (MYPD) revenue application up until 2028.
According to Eskom, the application covers the power utility’s financial period beginning on 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2028.
Eskom explained that it follows the MYPD methodology as prescribed by the regulatory authority.
“This methodology is now in its sixth application; hence the process is referred to as MYPD 6,” the statement read.
Nersa will decide on the revenue Eskom can receive following its analysis and the regulator conducting a series of public consultations.
Eskom believes that this application allows for an improvement in the financial sustainability of Eskom through the migration to cost-reflective prices and the successful operation of Generation, Transmission and Distribution in Eskom.
“Further migration towards cost reflectivity to cover the full cost of capital would be considered in subsequent applications. This would minimise the impact on the taxpayers.”
In accordance with its revenue decision, Eskom said Nersa will then make tariff decisions for implementation from 1 April 2025.
As per Eskom, it can only implement tariff decisions made by Nersa.
“We are entering the next phase of the regulatory process where Nersa will conduct an extensive public consultation about Eskom’s revenue application and we urge as many stakeholders as possible to become involved so Nersa can determine a key component in the funding of a constant electricity supply that drives economic growth and our quality of life for years to come,” said Chief Financial Officer of Eskom, Calib Cassim.
Cassim stated that as Nersa makes its decision, it will consider affordability for identified vulnerable sectors including indigent customers and certain industrial sectors.
“Eskom has made its revenue application based on the costs it will incur to efficiently provide electricity to the customer and it is a critical component in ensuring Eskom continues to provide reliable electricity services while improving its financial sustainability, through a migration to cost-reflective prices,” he added.
The utility said it was applying for total revenues of R446 billion for the 2026 financial year, R495 billion for 2027 and R537 billion for 2028.
This translates to the proposed average price increases for Eskom direct customers are 36.15% (1 April 2025 to 31 March 2026), 11.81% (1 April 2026 to 31 March 2027) and 9.10% (1 April 2027 to 31 March 2028).
In addition to the MYPD 6 application, Eskom submitted a retail tariff plan (RTP) to Nersa outlining proposed structural changes, which are expected to be implemented from 1 April 2025 once all Nersa approval and governance processes are concluded.
“The RTP aims to introduce cost-representative pricing that supports the long-term sustainability of all participants in the electricity supply industry.”
Nersa will consult with stakeholders on Eskom’s revenue application, as part of its decision-making process.
Eskom is required to submit to the regulator the revenue it requires for Nersa to make its determination. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 09/25/2024 - 11:57
Sungrow, a global leader in photovoltaic (PV) inverters and energy storage systems, proudly announces that it has been honoured with the prestigious 2024 Red Dot Design Award, often referred to as the Oscars of the design world. This accolade is awarded to Sungrow’s intelligent energy management platform, iSolarCloud. The innovative app empowers South African homeowners …
Tuesday, 24 September 2024: The National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) published Eskom’s Multi-Year Price Determination (MYPD) 6 revenue application for the period of Eskom’s Financial Years (FY) 2026 to 2028 (1 April 2025 to 31 March 2028) on 23 September 2024. NERSA will consult with stakeholders on Eskom’s revenue application, as part of...
Government prioritises providing shelter for stranded motorists in anticipation of more snow
In light of the South African Weather Service (SAWS) forecast of severe snow and wet conditions across the country, Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa has directed the National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC) to coordinate readiness and response efforts with the relevant stakeholders.
The severe weather has resulted in extreme cold nationwide, especially in KwaZulu-Natal and the Free State, prompting a robust multisectoral response.
According to CoGTA, the focus will be on humanitarian relief, with shelter being provided for those stranded, coordinated by the Department of Social Development.
The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) will lead rescue operations, while the Department of Transport will focus on road clearance.
“Our current priority is saving lives by providing necessities and ensuring the safety of those trapped.
“We understand families may have travel plans, but we strongly advise against travelling during these conditions. We urge everyone to cooperate with us, as cooperation can help save lives,” Hlabisa said.
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport said although thousands of motorists and truck drivers have been freed on the N3 highway, others are still trapped.
Hlabisa’s Office said all affected provinces have activated their disaster response structures.
This was confirmed during a national coordination meeting with Provincial Disaster Management Centres (PDMCs), which provided updated reports to pinpoint areas that need urgent intervention.
According to the department, disaster teams are working tirelessly to ensure the safety of those caught in these conditions.
The SAWS has since issued a Level 8 warning for additional disruptive snow in several areas, including Alfred Duma (Ladysmith), Dr N. Dlamini-Zuma (Underberg), Greater Kokstad, and others.
“This warning signifies potentially life-threatening weather that could impact people, animals, and infrastructure," the department said.
In addition, windy conditions, rain and heavy snowfall have disrupted essential services such as water and electricity.
“Government teams are actively working to restore these services to safeguard lives. KwaZulu-Natal and the Free State continue to experience heavy rains, raising concerns about localised flooding that could affect pedestrians and drivers,” the department said.
Hlabisa urged the public to exercise caution as disaster teams are continuing to provide emergency assistance.
While these teams are dedicated to supporting and rescuing those in need, the department said vigilance is paramount.
“The public is advised to stay alert and heed warnings from the SAWS, disaster management teams and law enforcement agencies," the Minister said.
In addition, various communication channels will be utilised to keep everyone informed and safe.
For emergencies, contact your local municipal disaster management center, the nearest police station, or national emergency numbers 112, 10177, or 107. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 09/22/2024 - 08:46
Citizens urged to exercise caution as weather conditions worsen
The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Disaster Management Centre (PDMC) this morning convened a Joint Operations Centre (JOC) meeting, where District Disaster Management Centres provided updates on relief efforts following the disruptive snowstorm that affected interior parts of the province on Friday.
The snowstorm has blocked major routes, including the R74 (Harrismith to Bergville), R74 Greytown/Colenso Road, N3 (Harrismith to Tugela Toll), R617 (Kokstad to Underberg), and the N3 Northbound, among others.
Multidisciplinary interventions have begun to yield results, with some stranded motorists receiving support in the form of soup kitchens, shelter and blankets.
Local municipalities, in conjunction with other State organs, have mobilised graders to clear snow in affected regions, prioritising major routes to facilitate emergency access.
Residents are urged to stay off the roads and avoid using alternative routes, as inclement weather conditions are expected to worsen.
According to the South African Weather Service, a Level 8 warning for further disruptive snow is in effect for Alfred Duma Ladysmith, Dr N. Dlamini-Zuma - Underberg, Greater Kokstad, Impendle, Inkosi Langalibalele Escourt, Inkosi Langalibalele Sobabili, Mpofana Giants Castle, Mpofana Mooi River, Okhahlamba and uMngeni.
“This warning indicates a potentially life-threatening weather occurrence. The heavy snowfall has also caused fallen trees, further complicating the situation. Residents living near the N3, who can assist stranded motorists with supplies are encouraged to do so safely.
“The heavy snow has disrupted essential services, including water and electricity, in several communities.
“Technical teams are working to restore these services as quickly as possible, but residents should prepare for potential delays due to the weather conditions,” the PDMC said.
Residents are strongly advised against snow chasing, as road conditions are extremely dangerous.
“Communities in the northern parts of the province continue to experience heavy rains, raising concerns about localised flooding. Disaster management teams are providing support to these areas, and residents are warned to remain vigilant. Residents are urged to stay informed through official channels,” the PDMC said. – SAnews.gov.za
Matona
Sat, 09/21/2024 - 14:11
Friday, 20 September 2024: The Generation Operational Recovery Plan continues to ensure a consistent energy supply and improved efficiencies, with loadshedding remaining suspended. Eskom has achieved 177 consecutive days of uninterrupted power supply since 26 March 2024. Operational efficiency has surpassed summer expectations, with unplanned outages averaging 12 800MW over the past seven days, compared...