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Eskom marks 156 days of constant energy supply

Location: News

Eskom marks 156 days of constant energy supply

Eskom says it has delivered 156 consecutive days of uninterrupted power supply since 26 March 2024 and load shedding remains suspended.

The power utility has also achieved a R11.08 billion reduction in diesel expenditure. 

In a statement, Eskom said it has maintained a constant electricity supply throughout the 122-day winter period, and no load shedding has been implemented since the start of its current financial year on 1 April 2024.

On August 26, Eskom announced its outlook for the summer period, 1 September 2024 to 31 March 2025, which detailed a likely scenario of a load shedding-free summer outlook due to structural generation improvements.

“Eskom maintained an average Energy Availability Factor (EAF) of 67% over the past seven days, with the best-performing stations – Kusile, Kendal, Matimba, Medupi, Matla and the peaking stations – sustaining an EAF of above 70%. 

“Additionally, the three power stations that have achieved an EAF above 60% in past week sustained this improvement.

“This is due to the continued benefits of accelerating and executing planned maintenance, partnering with the original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), and the dedication of power station managers and their teams,” said Eskom.

It said operational efficiency continues to surpass winter expectations, with current unplanned outages averaging between 9 800MW and 11 300MW over the past seven days.

The Unplanned Capacity Loss Factor (UCLF) continues to be on a downward trend at 25.6% for the financial year to date (01 April 2024 to 29 August 2024), improving from 34.6% in the corresponding period last year. 

This reduction in UCLF represents a -9% improvement compared to the same period last year. 

Unplanned outages of the generation units averaged 10 578MW during the past seven days, compared to 15 921MW in the corresponding week last year.

With regards to planned maintenance, Eskom said ongoing planned maintenance is at 5 983MW, “aligning with our winter maintenance strategy and bolstered by short-term maintenance to ensure continuous plant reliability”. - SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Sun, 09/01/2024 - 08:53

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Read moreEskom marks 156 days of constant energy supply

SIU to investigate Eskom contracts

Location: News

SIU to investigate Eskom contracts

The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) will investigate allegations of corruption and maladministration in nine Eskom contracts.

This after President Cyril Ramaphosa signed a proclamation authorising the corruption busting unit to probe the power utility’s affairs.

The SIU said it will investigate the following contracts:
• The procurement of and contracting for coal from Tegeta Exploration and Resources (Pty) Limited for coal supplied by Optimum Coal Mine (Pty) Limited and the Brakfontein Colliery Mine.
• Procuring and contracting for coal information technology services under a master services agreement concluded with T Systems International GmbH.
• The procurement of and contracting for information technology services related to software licence and support agreements concluded with SAP South Africa (Pty) Limited.
• Procurement of and contracting for coal services concerning Task Order SM008 for “capital scrubbing”
• The procurement of and contracting for coal security services from Combined Private Investigations (Pty) Limited.
• The procurement of and contracting for coal forensic investigation services from Kapditwala Incorporated, trading as Dentons South Africa.
• The procurement of and contracting for information technology services from Cutting Edge Commerce (Pty) Limited (formerly Leonardo Business Consulting).
• Serious maladministration in connection with the affairs of Eskom relating to a pre-payment by Eskom of approximately R1.68 billion for coal from Optimum Coal Mine to Hendrina Power Station, which pre-payment was later changed to a guarantee.
• Serious maladministration in connection with the affairs of Eskom relating to a pre-payment by Eskom of approximately R659 million to Tegeta Exploration and Resources (Pty) Limited.

“Additionally, the SIU will investigate any unauthorised, irregular, fruitless, or wasteful expenditure incurred by Eskom or the State. The investigation will encompass any unlawful or improper conduct by Eskom officials, employees, suppliers, service providers, or any other involved parties.

“The proclamation covers allegations of unlawful and improper conduct that occurred between 1 March 2006 and 30 August 2024, as well as any related activities before 1 March 2006 and after the date of the Proclamation that are pertinent to the matters under investigation or involve the same persons, entities, or contracts,” the SIU said.

Meanwhile, the unit said the proclamation authorising it to investigate allegations at the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform has been amended.

“The amendment results from the SIU’s investigations, which revealed that the SIU needs to investigate further areas that the existing proclamations did not cover. The SIU requested a Proclamation amendment in terms of time and focus areas,” the unit said.

The amendment additionally authorises the SIU to investigate the acquisition by the Department or beneficiaries of:
• the Bekendvlei, Nirwanda, Wonderhoek, Mont Piquet, Appelkloof and Rietvlei farms.
• Mike's Chicken (Pty) Limited, immovable assets and animals for Project Harmonie, Project Uitkyk and Project Dipalemo.
• Shares in Bambanani Fruits BEE (Pty) Limited regarding the Department's Proactive Land Acquisition Strategy or the Land Redistribution for Agricultural Development Policy and identifying, selecting and appointing strategic partners and beneficiaries.

“Additionally, the SIU will investigate any unauthorised, irregular, fruitless, or wasteful expenditure incurred by the department or the State. 

“The investigation will encompass any unlawful, improper or corrupt conduct by Department Officials, employees, suppliers, service providers, or any other involved parties. Beyond investigating maladministration, corruption, and fraud, the SIU will identify systemic failures and recommend measures to prevent future losses.

“In line with the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996 (SIU Act), the SIU will refer any evidence of criminal conduct uncovered during its investigation to the National Prosecuting Authority [NPA] for further action,” the SIU concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Fri, 08/30/2024 - 13:06

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Read moreSIU to investigate Eskom contracts

Don’t Throw Your Lead Acid Trolley Inverter Away – Here Is a Solution

Location: MyPR

Need to replace the Lead Acid Batteries in your old inverter? Then the Hubble S100A Lithion Ion Battery is just for you. We know of many people who bought ‘Eskom in a Box’ to tide them over during loadshedding. Most of those trolley inverters contained Lead Acid Batteries – replacing them has become an expensive …

Read moreDon’t Throw Your Lead Acid Trolley Inverter Away – Here Is a Solution

Eskom anticipates ‘load shedding free summer’ 

Location: News

Eskom anticipates 'load shedding free summer' 

Eskom anticipates that South Africa will experience a “load shedding free summer” if it manages to keep unplanned losses at power stations below 13 000MW.

This is according to the power utility’s Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) Dan Marokane who briefed the media on the state of Eskom and Summer Plan on Monday.

“Our view is that if we keep the unplanned losses below 13 000MW, we should have a load shedding free summer. At worst, we anticipate that in the event that unplanned losses reaches up to 15 500MW, we will at most experience Stage 2 [load shedding].

“The performance over the last four months has consistently hovered around unplanned losses of 12 000MW. Our power station managers and our teams are very alive to that, their focus is on controlling unplanned losses and should we stay below 13 000MW, we should have a comfortable summer,” Marokane explained.

WATCH | Eskom media briefing 

 

The GCEO added that over the coming months, more generation capacity is expected to come online from power stations.

“That 2500MW [of added capacity] will add significant margins to our reserves and once we have that, together with the sustained performance that we are seeing, we should get into a conversation sooner in the New Year, by March, as to when we can essentially indicate that from our perspective, load shedding at the chronic level that it was, is now behind us,” Marokane said.

He noted the dramatically improved generation performance but warned that the level of performance must be sustained throughout the entire business.

“There’s been a structural shift in the performance of our coal fleet. That structural shift is evidenced in the reduction of unplanned outages…and from the performance of 152 days without load shedding. 

“In contrast to where we were last December sends a signal that something, fundamentally, has shifted and it is all on the back of the generation recovery plan.

“The performance…has been above expectation and it is beefed by the interventions we have executed from a generation recovery plan. This performance needs to be institutionalised so that our ways of working as a business do not go back to where we were,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Mon, 08/26/2024 - 15:17

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Read moreEskom anticipates ‘load shedding free summer’ 

South Africa: President Ramaphosa Assigns Responsibilities for Certain State-Owned Enterprises

Location: News

The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa
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President Cyril Ramaphosa has assigned shareholder responsibility for each of the state-owned enterprises that previously fell under the Department of Public Enterprises to the respective line-function Ministries.

President Ramaphosa has signed proclamations which, in terms of Section 97 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa of 1996, transfer the administration, powers and functions entrusted by the specified legislation as follows:
-    Alexkor: Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources
-    Denel: Minister of Defence and Military Veterans
-    Eskom: Minister of Electricity and Energy
-    Safcol: Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment
-    South African Airways: Minister of Transport
-    South African Express: Minister of Transport
-    Transnet: Minister of Transport

In addition, certain sections of the Overvaal Resorts Limited Act of 1993 and Overvaal Resorts Limited Act Repeal Act of 2019 are vested with the Minister of Water and Sanitation.

The President has signed a proclamation appointing the Minister in the Presidency responsible for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation as the executive authority of the Department of Public Enterprises (DPE), which will continue to exist and operate until the human and financial resources are transferred appropriately. This appointment empowers the Minister to exercise with respect to DPE all relevant powers and functions under the Public Service Act of 1994 and the Public Finance Management Act of 1999. 

The Minister in the Presidency responsible for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation has also been assigned the responsibility to finalise the National State Enterprise Bill, which will set out the exercise of shareholder responsibility for respective SOEs which will be transferred in a phased manner into the envisaged national enterprise holding company.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.

Read moreSouth Africa: President Ramaphosa Assigns Responsibilities for Certain State-Owned Enterprises

President Ramaphosa assigns responsibilities for certain SOEs

Location: News

President Ramaphosa assigns responsibilities for certain SOEs

Line function Ministers will now bear shareholder responsibility for certain State-owned enterprises (SOEs) that previously fell under the Department of Public Enterprises (DPE).

This after President Cyril Ramaphosa signed proclamations transferring the administration, powers and functions entrusted by the specified legislation as follows:

  • Alexkor: Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources

  • Denel: Minister of Defence and Military Veterans

  • Eskom: Minister of Electricity and Energy

  • South African Forestry Company SOC Limited (Safcol): Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment

  • South African Airways: Minister of Transport

  • South African Express: Minister of Transport

  • Transnet: Minister of Transport

Furthermore, the Presidency said in a statement, certain sections of the Overvaal Resorts Limited Act of 1993 and Overvaal Resorts Limited Act Repeal Act of 2019 are “vested with the Minister of Water and Sanitation”.

President Ramaphosa has also signed a proclamation appointing Minister in the Presidency responsible for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, Maropene Ramokgopa, as the executive authority of the DPE.

“[The department] will continue to exist and operate until the human and financial resources are transferred appropriately. This appointment empowers the Minister to exercise with respect to DPE all relevant powers and functions under the Public Service Act of 1994 and the Public Finance Management Act of 1999.

“The Minister in the Presidency responsible for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation has also been assigned the responsibility to finalise the National State Enterprise Bill, which will set out the exercise of shareholder responsibility for respective SOEs, which will be transferred in a phased manner into the envisaged national enterprise holding company,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Mon, 08/26/2024 - 11:44

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Read morePresident Ramaphosa assigns responsibilities for certain SOEs

Eskom launches pilot electric vehicle charging infrastructure in Midrand

Location: News

Eskom launches pilot electric vehicle charging infrastructure in Midrand

Eskom has officially launched its electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure at the Eskom Academy of Learning (EAL) in Midrand, Gauteng. 

“This milestone marks a significant step in Eskom Distribution’s commitment to supporting the growth of the eMobility sector in South Africa and contributing to the country’s broader goals of reducing carbon emissions,” the state-owned power utility said. 

According to Eskom, the pilot project includes the procurement of 20 EVs ranging from light delivery vehicles to light trucks for operational use. 

The pilot project also involves the installation of 10 charging stations at five Eskom sites across the country. 

The other sites are Brackenfell in Cape Town, Mkondeni in Pietermaritzburg, Tlhabane Customer Network Centre (CNC) in Rustenburg and Marathon CNC in Mbombela. 

These sites will serve as the foundation for Eskom Distribution’s long-term strategy to electrify its entire fleet by 2040.

“We continue to focus on our long-term strategy to deliver a competitive, sustainable, and future-proof Eskom to ensure energy security, growth, and long-term sustainability for the benefit of South Africa and sub-Saharan Africa,” said General Manager in the Office of the Eskom Group Executive for Distribution, Gabriel Kgabo. 

By investing in eMobility and the charging infrastructure needed for EVs, Kgabo said Eskom was not only reducing its carbon footprint but also stimulating the local economy and creating new growth opportunities. 
Kgabo highlighted Eskom’s support of the government to align South Africa with the global EV ecosystem market. 

Key initiatives include the EV White Paper released by the Department of Trade Industry and Competition in December 2023 and the incentives announced by the National Treasury to encourage the local production of EVs from 2026.

Pilot Project Overview

The recently installed charging stations, in collaboration with Gridcars, feature state-of-the-art direct current fast chargers (60kW) and dual alternating current (AC) chargers (22kW). They are optimised for overnight charging of fleet vehicles and daytime workplace charging for employees and visitors.

The power utility believes this initiative will serve as a blueprint for the future rollout of EVs across Eskom’s entire fleet. 

“It is one of the levers that will steer the organisation towards net zero carbon emissions by 2050 and will also contribute to stimulating the local EV market.

“The successful launch of this infrastructure is a result of the dedicated efforts of the project team within Eskom. Their work is laying the groundwork for a future where electric vehicles play a central role in South Africa’s transportation landscape.” – SAnews.gov.za 

Gabisile
Fri, 08/23/2024 - 10:00

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Read moreEskom launches pilot electric vehicle charging infrastructure in Midrand

Four Eskom employees, contractor security guard arrested for theft of heavy fuel oil

Location: News

Four Eskom employees, contractor security guard arrested for theft of heavy fuel oil

Eskom has confirmed the arrest of four employees and a contractor security guard, in connection with the theft of heavy fuel oil, valued at R500 000 from the Camden Power Station.

According to an official statement, the accused have been charged and are detained at Ermelo Police Station after they were arrested on Friday, 10 August 2024, at midnight. 

This is after two Eskom weighbridge operators were apprehended for their alleged role in colluding to steal heavy fuel oil and defraud the company. 

“The investigation began during a routine quality inspection of coal deliveries at Camden Power Station, conducted by Eskom’s Security Investigation team. 

“A suspicious truck attempting to leave the station was intercepted, and the driver was asked to park on the side of the road. Upon presenting a weighbridge slip, the driver claimed that 30 610 kilograms of heavy fuel oil had been offloaded at Camden Power Station. 

“However, a subsequent inspection revealed that the truck was still fully loaded with the fuel oil. The driver fled the scene, triggering further investigations that led to the arrests,” the State-owned utility explained.

Following further investigations on 16 August 2024, authorities arrested two more Eskom employees, a weighbridge operator and a control room operator as well as a contractor security guard. 

According to Eskom, all the accused remain in custody, as the case has been remanded to 27 August 2024 for a formal bail application.

Eskom’s Acting General Manager for Security, Botse Sikhwitshi, said the organisation is committed to safeguarding the security and integrity of its critical infrastructure. 

“The ongoing collaboration between Eskom’s internal security investigations team and law enforcement agencies, coordinated by the National Energy Crisis Committee’s (NECOM) Safety and Security Priority Committee, is yielding positive results in our efforts to combat crime and corruption,” she explained. 

Sikhwitshi said while most of their employees are hardworking and dedicated to enhancing Eskom’s performance, they are fully committed to eradicating corruption. 

“The recent arrests are a positive step in our ongoing efforts to eliminate criminal activities within our organisation, reaffirming Eskom’s zero-tolerance approach to crime and corruption,” Sikhwitshi added. 

Eskom is urging the public to report any unlawful activities, such as fraud, illegal electricity sales, theft of coal, fuel oil, and diesel, and crimes targeting critical infrastructure.

“These reports help Eskom eradicate crime and corruption, potentially saving thousands of rands, as demonstrated in this case,” the statement read. 

Reports can be made anonymously via the Eskom Crime Line at 0800 11 27 22 or through WhatsApp at 081 333 3323. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Wed, 08/21/2024 - 11:07

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Read moreFour Eskom employees, contractor security guard arrested for theft of heavy fuel oil

Eskom removes illegally connected transformers in Gauteng

Location: News

Eskom removes illegally connected transformers in Gauteng

Eskom, in collaboration with various law enforcement agencies, has removed over 35 illegally connected transformers in Gauteng’s Diepsloot Extension 6.

“This joint operation is part of Eskom’s ongoing efforts to reclaim its network and alleviate the strain caused by unauthorised and illegal electricity connections,” the State-owned power utility said of Tuesday’s removal.

In the 2022/23 financial year, Eskom said it suffered non-technical losses of around R5 billion due to illegal connections, meter bypasses, and other electricity-related criminal activities within its supply area.

The utility has lamented that these unauthorised practices undermine its financial health and its ability to provide a reliable electricity supply to lawful customers.

Meanwhile, according to Eskom, illegally connected transformers not only destabilise the network, causing frequent supply interruptions, extended outages and substandard service for paying customers, but it also poses significant safety risks to their technicians working on the system.

Eskom’s Group Executive for Distribution, Monde Bala, expressed deep appreciation for the collaboration with the South African Police Service (SAPS), Joburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD), Red Ants, Eskom Protective Services, and the private security companies in ensuring the success of this operation.

“These efforts are crucial in safeguarding Eskom’s assets, ensuring public safety, and mitigating the severe energy losses caused by illegal connections, meter bypasses, and acts of theft and vandalism,” Bala added.

While most employees are dedicated and committed to delivering their daily job outputs and striving to enhance Eskom’s performance, the organisation stated that it maintains a clear stance of zero tolerance towards crime and corruption. 

“Consequently, we are currently investigating allegations from community leaders that some Eskom employees are allegedly involved in the sale of illegal transformers. We will update community leaders on the outcomes of these investigations once they are concluded.” 

Eskom has since called on all communities to refrain from engaging in any illegal activities related to electricity. 
Members of the public are encouraged to report illegal connections, meter bypasses, and any suspicious activities to the Eskom Crime Line at 0800 11 27 22 or via WhatsApp at 081 333 3323. 

Additionally, anyone with information regarding the involvement of Eskom employees in illegal activities is urged to report anonymously for further investigation. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Wed, 08/21/2024 - 10:44

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Read moreEskom removes illegally connected transformers in Gauteng

Load shedding suspension continues 

Location: News

Load shedding suspension continues 

Load shedding remains suspended, with Eskom providing uninterrupted power supply for over 142 consecutive days since 26 March 2024, including over 108 days of constant supply throughout the winter period. 

There has been no load shedding since the start of Eskom’s financial year on 1 April 2024. 

According to Eskom, the Generation Operational Recovery Plan continues to enhance efficiencies for Eskom, resulting in a R10.21 billion reduction in Open-Cycle Gas Turbines (OCGTs) diesel expenditure from 1 April 2024 to 15 August 2024.

“This represents approximately a 74% decrease compared to the same period last year,” the power utility explained. 

Eskom said the last time South Africa experienced over four months of load shedding suspension was more than four years ago, from 16 March 2020 to 9 July 2020, when load shedding was suspended for 116 days. 
Eskom has maintained an average Energy Availability Factor (EAF) of 67% over the week.  

In addition, over the past seven days, Majuba, Lethabo, Kendal, Kusile, and the peaking stations have recorded an EAF greater than 70%. 

In addition, four more power stations have achieved an EAF above 60%. 

“Notably, five of these stations were part of the priority list in our recovery plan. Eskom’s operational efficiency continues to surpass its winter assumptions, with current unplanned outages averaging between 9 800MW and 12 400MW since 01 April 2024 – the start of Eskom’s Financial Year 2025,” the organisation added. 

Friday’s figures were sitting at 10 145MW, which according to Eskom was still significantly lower than the winter 2024 forecast. 

However, the winter forecast, published in April, anticipated a likely scenario of unplanned outages at 15 500MW and load shedding limited to Stage 2 still remaining in force. 

Eskom is expected to announce on 26 August 2024, its outlook for the summer period from 1 September 2024 to 31 March 2025. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Sun, 08/18/2024 - 09:46

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Read moreLoad shedding suspension continues 

President Ramaphosa signs Electricity Regulation Amendment Act into law

Location: News

President Ramaphosa signs Electricity Regulation Amendment Act into law

President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed into law the Electricity Regulation Amendment Act which sets out far-reaching reforms of the country’s electricity sector, including the establishment of a competitive electricity market.

In a statement on Friday, the Presidency said the bill assented to by the President amends the Electricity Regulation Act of 2006. This is so as to respond to current realities in the electricity sector. 

It also opens up pathways to greater competition and reduced energy costs; increases investment in new generation capacity to achieve energy security; establishes an independent transmission company as the custodian of the national grid; and imposes severe penalties for damage to and sabotage of infrastructure.

The Electricity Regulation Amendment Act provides for the establishment, duties, powers and functions of the Transmission System Operator SOC Ltd (TSO) – which must be established as an independent entity within five years – and for the National Transmission Company of South Africa to act as the TSO in the interim. 

It also provides for an open market platform that allows for competitive, wholesale or retail buying and selling of electricity.

The Act provides for market operation as a new activity that may be licensed by the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA). 

In addition, it requires the development of a Market Code that will establish rules to govern the future competitive market and outlines the process through which the code will be approved.

The Act further clarifies the principles that apply to the setting or approval of prices, charges and tariffs, providing, among others, that NERSA must enable an efficient licensee to recover the full cost of the licensed activity, must allow for a reasonable return proportionate to the risk of the licensed activity, and may provide for incentives for continued improvement of technical and economic efficiency.

As it does so, the regulator may consider factors such as security of supply, the diversity of supply and the promotion of renewable energy.

In addition, the Act distinguishes between tariffs that must be set or approved by the regulator, such as network charges, and those which are subject to a direct supply agreement or arise as an outcome of a competitive market.

“To ensure a level playing field for competition between multiple electricity generators, the Act provides that the system operator shall not discriminate between different generators or customers in relation to dispatching or balancing the system, except for objectively justifiable and identifiable reasons approved by the regulator. 

“Access to the transmission and distribution power system must be objective, transparent and non-discriminatory,” said the Presidency.

These changes are in line with the broader reforms guided by the Energy Action Plan and the Eskom Roadmap, which aim to modernise and transform South Africa’s electricity system to end load shedding and ensure long-term energy security.

It is anticipated that diversity of supply and the promotion of renewables will stimulate a demand for new skills, innovation and technology in the electricity sector, which will generate new industrial activity and in turn mitigate unemployment.

Reinforcing the protection of public infrastructure as part of the fight against crime, the law provides for fines of up to R1 million or five years in prison – or both – for persons who, among other offences, damage, remove or destroy any transmission, distribution or reticulation cable, equipment or infrastructure.

Penalties for persons who unlawfully receive such cables, equipment or infrastructure face fines of up to R5 million or 10 years in prison, or both.

Going forward, the Act will lead to long term energy security, a more competitive energy system, more rapid uptake of renewable energy sources, and ultimately lower energy prices for all South Africans.

The Electricity Regulation Amendment (ERA) Bill was passed through a majority in the National Assembly in March. 

READ | National Assembly passes Electricity Regulation Amendment Bill 

-SAnews.gov.za 
 

Neo
Sat, 08/17/2024 - 08:32

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Read morePresident Ramaphosa signs Electricity Regulation Amendment Act into law

A New Era of Business and Government Collaboration

Location: Business

The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa
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President Cyril Ramaphosa convened a meeting yesterday with members of cabinet and senior business leaders to pave the way for a new era of collaboration under South Africa's 7th democratic administration, and to strengthen the partnership formed over a year ago to stimulate economic growth and job creation by addressing constraints on growth in energy, transport and logistics, and crime and corruption.

At the meeting, both business and government leaders committed to build upon progress achieved to date and accelerate implementation over the next 12-18 months in line with the strategic priorities of the Government of National Unity (GNU).

President Cyril Ramaphosa said, “The Government of National Unity has reaffirmed its commitment to urgently implement the reform agenda started by the 6th administration and to restore confidence and sentiment—essential drivers of investment, inclusive economic growth, and job creation. We have reaffirmed our commitment to a dynamic partnership between government and business to foster South Africa's economic growth and social advancement. Since the start of the partnership just over a year ago, we have made substantial progress towards stabilising the energy sector, improving the performance of our rail and port system, and strengthening the fight against crime and corruption.”

Adrian Gore, co-convenor of the business delegation, commented: "We welcome President Ramaphosa's commitment to a new era of partnership at a critical inflection point for the country. In the first phase of our partnership, over 130 CEOs pledged support and business invested more than R260 million and mobilised over 350 experts across the 3 focal areas. This has contributed to the excellent progress made with the reduction in loadshedding being the most visible and pronounced achievement. Continued momentum could mean we are able to achieve 3-5% GDP growth by 2030. We will be launching Phase 2 of our partnership with this ambition in mind.”

The meeting reviewed progress over the past year, as the partnership sought to align on priorities for the next chapter. There was strong consensus on the importance of continuing to address structural challenges, drive reforms and efficiencies, and invest in skills capacitation across all workstreams.

The energy workstream was reported to have had the most impact, achieving a dramatic reduction in load shedding in collaboration with Eskom (over 140 days without load shedding so far this year), and significant grid capacity recovery (with more than 6 GW of new energy generation added) through investment in additional technical support and capacitation from 57 companies investing over 9,000 hours at 5 power stations. The energy availability factor is currently tracking above 60% (vs 54% in 2023). 

However, we still face multiple challenges including rapidly rising electricity costs, unsustainable municipal utilities, complex market reform, a constrained grid with delayed expansion, and stalling investment in new generation. 

Significant investment will be required for energy sector reform over the next 5-10 years and there was strong consensus that it is critical to pave the way now to address the challenges. Business, Eskom and the Presidency have agreed that the priorities of the National Energy Crisis Committee should include a focus on transmission, market reform, municipal utilities and new energy generation. 

The transport and logistics and crime and corruption workstreams which are now fully established have also evidenced impact, albeit not as quickly or extensively as anticipated. 

Business has provided significant technical support and resources to Transnet Freight Rail, including procurement and operations expertise, and port maintenance support for Transnet Port Terminals. The Transnet Board and management team are making progress in implementing the Transnet recovery plan. Despite the significant efforts by the partners, there is broad acknowledgment that Transnet requires substantial interventions to improve performance to meet the needs of its customers and the market demand necessary for sustainable economic growth. 

The meeting agreed that the rapid implementation of structural reforms and strict adherence to the Freight Logistics Roadmap deadlines are crucial to facilitate participation of, and investment by, the private sector to help address our national logistics challenges. This is crucial to ensure that our commodities and manufactured products can be competitively sold into the local market and exported to meet demand. Resolving these issues will promote job retention and job creation.

In the crime and corruption workstream, an immediate joint imperative is to support South Africa's removal from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list, which would improve international confidence in SA as an investment destination. Key to this is demonstrating the law enforcement agencies' intent and ability to successfully prosecute complex crime and corruption cases and recover assets. Business is providing specialised skills at arm's length to support this objective. The promulgation of the NPA Amendment Act is key to bolstering IDAC's ability to effectively deliver on its mandate. 

The meeting acknowledged that economic growth is a pre-requisite for large-scale job creation. For now, unlocking a few key policy, regulatory and funding bottlenecks could accelerate existing short-term interventions across four areas, including new work opportunities in tourism and global business services, skilling that creates new jobs (particularly in digital skills), providing additional public sector first loss funding to crowd in private sector capital to increase affordable debt available for SMMEs, and institutionalizing, expanding and strengthening the SAYouth platform to facilitate access to opportunities for young people. 

Martin Kingston, Chair of the Business for South Africa (B4SA) Steering Committee, commented: “This is a model of collaboration that has shown its merit and is fit for purpose to drive accelerated growth and jobs in the 7th administration. Over the last year significant progress has been made and impact has been achieved, and whilst it has not been as swift or extensive as we would have liked, it has gifted us with a blueprint for success in a new era with the GNU. We are keen that the reforms are implemented with urgency. We are very optimistic about the next phase of the partnership.”

“As we move forward with this partnership, we will intensify our work to address these pressing issues and expand our efforts to drive employment creation. We know that the challenges ahead are formidable. But with our continued partnership, we are well equipped to navigate these complexities and contribute to sustainable growth for South Africa”, concluded President Ramaphosa.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.

Read moreA New Era of Business and Government Collaboration

Government, business partnership begins to flourish

Location: News

Government, business partnership begins to flourish

The government and business partnership to resolve South Africa’s challenges is beginning to bear fruit, although much more needs to be done.

This is according to a statement released by the Presidency and Business for South Africa.

The partnership between the two parties was established last year in a bid to work together to resolve the question of inclusive and economic growth.

The collaboration has targeted three areas for particular interest, including energy, transport and logistics, and crime and corruption.

PHOTOS | President Ramaphosa meets with business leaders at the Union Buildings

 

Energy

In a joint statement following a meeting between government and business, which was led by President Cyril Ramaphosa on Tuesday, the Presidency and Business for South Africa noted that the energy workstream, in particular, has achieved significant progress.

“The energy workstream was reported to have had the most impact, achieving a dramatic reduction in load shedding, in collaboration with Eskom (over 140 days without load shedding so far this year), and significant grid capacity recovery (with more than 6 gigawatts of new energy generation added) through investment in additional technical support and capacitation from 57 companies investing over 9 000 hours at five power stations. The energy availability factor is currently tracking above 60% vs 54% in 2023.

READ | A further 2 500MW expected back 'by the end of August'

“However, we still face multiple challenges, including rapidly rising electricity costs, unsustainable municipal utilities, complex market reform, a constrained grid with delayed expansion, and stalling investment in new generation.

“Significant investment will be required for the energy sector reform over the next five to 10 years, and there was strong consensus that it is critical to pave the way now to address the challenges. 

"Business, Eskom and the Presidency have agreed that the priorities of the National Energy Crisis Committee should include a focus on transmission, market reform, municipal utilities and new energy generation,” the statement read.

WATCH | Government, business meet with the President

 

Transport and logistics 

In the statement, the two parties acknowledged that although the two workstreams have recorded successes, this was not “as quickly or extensively as anticipated”.

“Business has provided significant technical support and resources to Transnet Freight Rail, including procurement and operations expertise, and port maintenance support for Transnet Port Terminals. The Transnet Board and management team are making progress in implementing the Transnet recovery plan. 

“Despite the significant efforts by the partners, there is broad acknowledgment that Transnet requires substantial interventions to improve performance to meet the needs of its customers and the market demand necessary for sustainable economic growth,” the statement read.

READ | Transnet forging ahead with reforms

An agreement was reached to move quickly to implement reforms and meet Freight Logistics Roadmap deadlines.

“The meeting agreed that the rapid implementation of structural reforms and strict adherence to the Freight Logistics Roadmap deadlines are crucial to facilitate the participation of and investment by the private sector to help address our national logistics challenges. 

“This is crucial to ensure that our commodities and manufactured products can be competitively sold into the local market and exported to meet demand. Resolving these issues will promote job retention and job creation,” the joint statement said.

Crime and corruption

Critical to South Africa’s growth and investment prospects is removal from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list.

When the FATF grey listed South Africa at its February 2023 Plenary meetings, it adopted a jointly agreed Action Plan containing 22 Action Items linked to the eight strategic deficiencies identified in the country’s Anti-Money Laundering and the Combating of the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) regime.

READ | SA continues work to exit grey list

The joint statement said the meeting agreed that an “immediate joint imperative" is to support South Africa’s removal from the list.

“Key to this is demonstrating the law enforcement agencies’ intent and ability to successfully prosecute complex crime and corruption cases, and recover assets. Business is providing specialised skills at arm’s length to support this objective. 

"The promulgation of the NPA Amendment Act is key to bolstering the ability of the IDAC [Investigating Directorate Against Corruption] to effectively deliver on its mandate,” the statement said.

On job creation, the meeting acknowledged that growing the economy is imperative to facilitate employment opportunities.

“For now, unlocking a few key policy, regulatory and funding bottlenecks could accelerate existing short-term interventions across four areas, including new work opportunities in tourism and global business services; skilling that creates new jobs (particularly in digital skills); providing additional public sector first loss funding to crowd in private sector capital to increase affordable debt available for SMMEs, and institutionalising, expanding and strengthening the SAYouth platform to facilitate access to opportunities for young people,” the joint statement said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Wed, 08/14/2024 - 11:00

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Read moreGovernment, business partnership begins to flourish

Eskom reduces diesel spend by R9bn

Location: News

Eskom reduces diesel spend by R9bn

Eskom has recorded a reduction of some R9 billion in diesel expenditure from 1 April 2024 to 7 August 2024, compared to the same period last year.

This as the power utility has kept load shedding at bay for more than 135 days and reduced reliance on Open Cycle Gas Turbines (OCGTs), which use diesel to generate energy.

During a media briefing on Monday, the Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, explained that because of Eskom’s sustained Energy Availability Factor (EAF), spending on the fuel has decreased significantly.

“If your EAF is up, it means that you are less reliant on the Open Cycle Gas Turbines. So you are burning less and less diesel. Since the beginning of the financial year, we have brought down the use of diesel by 73%. So we have saved about R9.6 billion compared to the same period last year. That’s significant.

“It’s good for Eskom’s own balance sheet and its liquidity. We can reinvest this money back into the people and into the [generating] units so that we can continue to see the kind of phenomenal improvements that we have been seeing and we can stave off load shedding,” he said.

The Minister expressed optimism that Eskom is moving towards a reality where OCGTs are only used “as and when we need them”.

“The amount of time that we have been calling on [the OCGTs], since the 1st of April, averages about 4%. If you look at the same period last year, we were using them about 20.6% of the time. "

He said the performance of Eskom is an indication that the Energy Action Plan announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa in 2022 is producing tangible fruit.

“We are really optimistic about the situation. The net picture confirms that we are on a good path… It confirms the efficacious nature of our intervention. It’s giving us the kind of results that are desirable and most households can see that,” Ramokgopa said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Tue, 08/13/2024 - 11:08

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Read moreEskom reduces diesel spend by R9bn

A further 2 500MW expected back ‘by the end of August’

Location: News

A further 2 500MW expected back 'by the end of August'

Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, says the power grid is expected to be strengthened with generating units expected back by the end of August.

He was speaking during a media briefing in Pretoria on Monday morning.

“We are expecting Medupi Unit 4 to give us 800MW [megawatts] and to fire up Kusile Unit 6, which is another 800MW. We are hoping to get an extension of life of Koeberg Unit 2… We are not complacent. We are doing everything by the book and we are still optimistic about getting that extension of life, and it will give us an additional 980MW.

“We do expect that by the end of August this year, just from the Eskom fleet, we should be getting an additional 2 500MW,” he said.

The Minister cautioned, however, that although “we remain buoyant” regarding Eskom’s performance, load shedding is still not a thing of the past.

“I really want to caution that load shedding is not behind us. In the next three weeks or so Eskom will be sharing what the summer outlook is. We are still buoyant about the performance of these generation plants.

“Having said that, we need to caution against any early declaration to decree load shedding as behind us. We do everything possible to resolve this question but the numbers do indicate that we are within touching distance,” Ramokgopa said.

The Minister made special mention of Tutuka, Kendal and Kriel power stations.

“Tutuka has experienced a significant amount of challenges over a period of time… but we are seeing results now. Just this period from March to August, the unplanned capacity loss factor [UCLF] has reduced by 29%. That’s significant from where Tutuka started; they’ve moved from 2 411MW to 949MW.

“At Kendal, there were major issues with regard to exceeding the emissions standards, so there [were] a number of interventions that had to be made. Today… we were able to reduce the [UCLF] from 2 500MW out and now we’re sitting at about 919MW.

“We have seen exceptional results at Kriel, with the reduction in the UCLF having gone down 53% from 1 400MW to about 508MW,” the Minister said.

He explained that change in leadership at the helm has changed the trajectory of those stations.

“The people issues do matter and the Eskom leadership has taken that into account. The fact that you place the most seasoned, loyal and patriotic individuals to be at the helm of those power stations has given us the kind of results that are required,” Ramokgopa said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Mon, 08/12/2024 - 11:14

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Read moreA further 2 500MW expected back ‘by the end of August’

Africa Tech Festival 2024 Showcases Women Tech and Telecoms Leaders, Aims to Positively Impact Africa’s Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Gender Gap

Location: News

Africa Tech Festival
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When the 27th edition of Africa Tech Festival (https://AfricaTechFestival.com) kicks off on 12 November at the Cape Town International Convention Centre in South Africa, the spotlight will be on the exceptional women shaping the future of technology and telecoms in Africa. With August marking the celebration of Women's Month in the host country, the event will proudly showcase many of the women leaders driving growth and innovation across the sector.

Taking place from 12 to 14 November, Africa Tech Festival 2024 incorporates AfricaCom, AfricaTech, AfricaIgnite, and The AI Summit Cape Town, which will welcome a cumulative 15,000 visitors, more than 400 speakers, and over 300 exhibitors as it explores enterprise tech innovation and disruption across key sectors such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, cloud and data centres, and green ICT.

As the continent's leading platform for technology innovators, specialists, and thought leaders, Africa Tech Festival 2024's agenda includes several prominent female leaders who are making a significant contribution to the industry. Their expertise and insights will provide invaluable perspectives on the challenges and opportunities within the sector.

Key speakers include:

“Africa Tech Festival provides the continent's tech ecosystems with a unique platform from which to collaborate and drive positive change. Building a more inclusive, sustainable world means uniting the world's most inspirational founders, business leaders, policymakers, investors, and rising stars, so we are delighted to see so many inspirational female tech executives featured in this year's speaker line-up. As we celebrate Women's Month, we look forward to their unique insights and contributions,” said Informa's James Williams, Event Director of Africa Tech Festival.  

Organisers are confident that the presence of these female industry leaders at Africa Tech Festival will provide impetus to efforts by the industry to be more inclusive, highlighting the opportunities available to women in various sectors, providing insights for women wishing to embark on tech and telecoms careers, and showcasing the successes and contributions of women making their mark within the industry.

“Events such as Africa Tech Festival provide a platform for women to network and to gain exposure to more accomplished women in tech. These role models provide inspiration to women starting out in their careers that they can break the glass ceiling,” said Funke Opeke, CEO, MainOne, who will be participating in the ‘Big Tech and Telcos: Collaborating on Digital Infrastructure Investment' keynote panel.

Speaking on the importance of mentorship for women entering the industry, Mary Mahuma, CIO, Southern Africa, Philip Morris said, “As a female industry leader, I see mentorship as a necessary reminder of our social responsibility to be empathetic, driven, inclusive, and resilient leaders. I am fortunate to have a female mentor who has significantly influenced my leadership style, thinking, and understanding of corporate dynamics and culture.” Mary will be a panellist on the ‘Nurturing Talent and Bridging Skills Gap: Building a Future-Ready Workforce in the Age of AI' panel.

“Women's contributions are significantly transforming the telecoms and technology landscape in Africa through innovation, leadership, and advocacy. Their contributions are not only advancing the industry but also driving social and economic development across the continent. By fostering innovation, supporting entrepreneurship, and advocating for inclusive policies, these women are transforming the tech landscape in Africa,” added Motunrayo Opayinka, Founder and CEO, Womenovate. Motunrayo will share her insights on the ‘Educational Equity Through AI: Tools for Advancing Education in Underserved Areas' panel. 

In addition, EQL:LOUNGE creates a space for women in tech to connect directly, and engage in meaningful dialogue, with high-calibre speakers in intimate settings hosting panel discussions, keynote addresses, and fireside chats. Taking place the evening before the event opens, InspiringFifty Africa is a prestigious awards ceremony focusing on recognising the top fifty women making significant strides within the African tech ecosystem.

Register now to secure your spot and join us in shaping the future of technology in Africa: https://AfricaTechFestival.com

In a special Women's Day offer, Africa Tech Festival is offering a 15% discount on Platinum Passes until midnight on 16 August. Passes can be purchased via this link, using the code NWD15 - https://apo-opa.co/3SAYyFh

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa Tech Festival.

About Africa Tech Festival: 
Africa Tech Festival, including anchor events AfricaCom, AfricaTech, AfricaIgnite & The AI Summit Cape Town is part of the Informa Tech Connecting Africa event series.  

A vibrant celebration of Africa's diverse community of tech champions, Africa Tech Festival is the largest tech and digital connectivity conference and exhibition in Africa, attracting hundreds of exhibitors, more than 400 speakers and more than 15,000 delegates. 

Read moreAfrica Tech Festival 2024 Showcases Women Tech and Telecoms Leaders, Aims to Positively Impact Africa’s Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Gender Gap

Consistent electricity supply ‘a step closer’

Location: News

Consistent electricity supply 'a step closer'

Consistent electricity supply in South Africa is now “one step closer” due to the diligent and dedicated implementation of the Energy Action Plan (EAP).

This is according to Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, who on Thursday briefed members of the media on the outcomes of the Cabinet meeting held on Wednesday.

The country has not experienced load shedding for more than 130 days.

“The supply of consistent electricity is now a step closer due to the steadfast implementation of the EAP announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa in July 2022. The EAP’s consistent focus on planned maintenance and work to achieve energy security by bringing onboard new generation capacity has contributed greatly to consistent power supply and no load shedding over several months. 

“This is an important enabler for economic growth and has a positive impact on quality of life, allowing citizens to continue with their daily activities unhindered,” the Minister said.

She highlighted that at the end of July, Eskom had recorded an unplanned capability loss factor (UCLF) of 8321 MW, signalling a historic milestone in the improvement of electricity generating at its power stations.

“Cabinet congratulated Eskom on achieving this important milestone and urged South Africans to continue adopting an energy saving lifestyle to protect our national grid. By doing, so we all play our part in helping to keep the lights on, which is crucial to business, industry and the economy,” Ntshavheni said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Thu, 08/08/2024 - 12:12

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City of Ekurhuleni to host next Presidential Imbizo

Location: News

City of Ekurhuleni to host next Presidential Imbizo

President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to lead a Presidential District Development Model (DDM) Imbizo in Ekurhuleni in Gauteng later this month.

This is according to Presidential Spokesperson Vincent Magwenya who was briefing the media on Wednesday.

The Presidential Imbizo will be the first to be held by the seventh administration. It is scheduled for Friday, 23 August.

“The DDM was established to improve coordination and alignment between the different spheres of government. This is an important initiative to improve planning, budgeting and implementation at a local level by bringing all spheres, departments and stakeholders together, towards uplifting our communities.

“You will recall that the planned District Development Model (DDM) oversight visit during April 2024 to the City of Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality, had to be postponed due to challenges faced by the municipality at the time. The President is therefore pleased that the oversight visit to the City of Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality will take place,” he said.

The President is expected to be accompanied by all members of the National Executive who would already be on the ground leading up to the visit.

A success story 

During the media briefing, Magwenya batted away notions that the DDM Izimbizo have not delivered – pointing out that notable successes have been recorded in municipalities like Sedibeng in Gauteng where an imbizo was held in 2022.

This after criticism about the Presidential Izimbizo came to the fore this week.

“[The] Presidential Imbizo contributed to a clinic becoming fully operational. The clinic, which was built before the COVID-19 lockdown, had become a white elephant and the community in Zone 17, Sebokeng had to travel distances for basic medical care.

“Through the Presidential imbizo in [August] 2022, an inter-governmental task team comprising of national, provincial, local government and Eskom, identified the gaps for the clinic to become operational. The big issue was that it was not connected to the grid and that there was a stand-off between the different spheres of government about costs.

“The Presidential Izimbizo unlocked the bottlenecks. Eskom and the various government departments procured the transformer and finances to connect the clinic to the grid. Today, the community is benefiting,” Magwenya highlighted.

He added that the seventh administration will engage citizens.

“This seventh administration will continue to engage citizens through the Presidential Imbizo and the second round of the Presidential Izimbizo starts later this month at the Tsakane Stadium in the Ekurhuleni Metro and many more will follow over the next five years,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Wed, 08/07/2024 - 14:41

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Read moreCity of Ekurhuleni to host next Presidential Imbizo