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Komati power station repurposing on PCC agenda

Location: News

Komati power station repurposing on PCC agenda

The Presidential Climate Commission (PCC) is expected to convene its 12th Ordinary Quarterly meeting in Johannesburg at Constitution Hill Precinct tomorrow.

The PCC said Friday’s meeting will consider the final draft for adoption of the Komati Power Station decommission and repurposing process report and review the progress on its work.

The power station was decommissioned in October last year with plans to repurpose it into a renewable energy site with 150MW of photovoltaic energy, 70MW wind generating capacity, 150MW of Battery Energy Storage System and synchronous condenser.

In November last year, Eskom announced that the World Bank approved a $497 million concessional loan facility to the power utility for the repurposing project.

The PCC described other issues on the agenda for the upcoming meeting

“The meeting will also receive a progress report on the status of the Just Energy Transition Investment Plan (JETIP), which comes at the back of the latest findings of the PCC commissioned Climate Finance Landscape Report and the mooted Just Transition Finance Mechanism (JTFM) which the commission will consider for a release for public comments.

“Key on the Commission agenda is the issues of climate awareness and misinformation and to this end the Commission will also receive and consider the findings of the first ever South African Social Attitudes Survey by the Human Science Research Council (HSRC) focusing on “Attitudes towards Climate Change and the Just Transition” as well as a report on the anticipated impact of El Nino on South Africa’s medium-term weather forecast by the South African Weather Services,” the Commission said.

The meeting is open to the public and can be accessed on the following platforms:

Website: https://www.climatecommission.org.za

Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/climatecommission

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@presidentialclimatecommiss407 - SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Thu, 11/16/2023 - 10:19

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Eskom lays out on transmission expansion

Location: News

Eskom lays out on transmission expansion

Eskom Managing Director of Transmission, Segomoco Scheppers, says the power utility is working hard to expand transmission lines and unlock future generation capacity for the power grid “as fast as possible”.

He was addressing the Transmission Development Plan (TDP) Implementation Forum held at the Eskom Academy of Learning on Wednesday.

Previously, the power utility said it needed to augment the transmission network by approximately 14 200km by 2032 to ensure energy security in the country.

“[There] are currently 46 expansion projects in execution, of which 26 will deliver 1 632km of transmission lines, 11 290MVA and enable over 15 000MW of generation capacity. Of these 26 projects, 50% will deliver 890km of transmission lines, 3 290MVA of transformer capacity and enable the safe and reliable operation of over 10 000MW of new generation.

“This includes specifically Medupi and Kusile [power stations] as well as the Garob 267MW project connecting at Kronos substation in the Northern Cape. The other 50%... are in different phases of procurement and will deliver 435km and 8 000MVA, enabling 4 975MW of new generation capacity, mainly in the Northern and Western Cape,” he said.

Scheppers assured the forum that Eskom is “very focused on ensuring that we expand the grid as fast as possible, while safely managing the power system”.

Into the future

Looking into the future of Eskom transmission, Scheppers said Eskom has approved “the execution of R26 billion in capital investment” for transmission, with two priority programmes already in the pipeline to “accelerate the delivery of the transmission infrastructure”.

“These programmes entail, firstly, the development of 25 projects in existing substations… which will unlock 13 000MW of new generation in the next five years; secondly, 22 expedited transmission projects that will unlock 24 000MW of grid connection capacity by 2033.

“We are developing these 47 projects, which have the potential to unlock 37 000MW of grid connection capacity between 2025 and 2033. These projects are at different stages of implementation in terms of design, procurement and construction,” he said.

Scheppers called on all stakeholders to support the power utility in its plans.

“I cannot overemphasise the fact that the successful roll out of our plans will require continued support from all key stakeholders, including relevant authorities unlocking bottlenecks, as well as the market in terms of construction, contractors, suppliers and consultants.

“We are very grateful for the various NECOM [National Energy Crisis Committee] initiatives, which are proving very effective in addressing some of our historical challenges,” he said.

National Transmission Company SA

Scheppers gave the forum an update on the legal separation of Eskom into the Generation, Distribution and Transmission entities.

According to Scheppers, the separation of transmission entity – dubbed the National Transmission Company South Africa SOC Ltd (NTCSA) – is fully underway.

“We are in the process of getting final approval from the Minister of Public Enterprises for the independent board of directors for this new company. A binding merger agreement has already been signed with suspensive conditions to be fulfilled… in order to transfer the current transmission business into the new subsidiary.

“Following the fulfilment of the suspensive conditions, NTCSA will then be operationalised and employees transferred to the new company on the same conditions of service and without disrupting their years of service. We are busy with the lender engagements that are required for us to obtain consent, and these are already at an advanced stage,” he said.

The National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) has already approved licences for operating the transmission system, trading in electricity, and for import and export.

“The final licences and associated conditions are being finalised and in fact, we expect that we’ll be in possession of these licences before the end of this month,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Wed, 11/15/2023 - 11:41

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SA, Qatar bolster relations

Location: News

SA, Qatar bolster relations

President Cyril Ramaphosa has deemed his visit to Qatar as significant, saying it serves as an opportunity to discuss and share views on the recent international developments. 

“This visit is very significant, not only as an opportunity to strengthen bilateral relations between our two countries, but also to share views on recent international developments. 

“The events in Palestine, and the growing deaths of civilians, particularly children, grieves us all. South Africa supports all efforts to secure an immediate and full ceasefire, with talks on a political solution to address the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people for statehood,” President Ramaphosa said. 

The President was delivering remarks at the Qatar - South Africa Business Roundtable in Doha, Qatar, on Wednesday. 

President Ramaphosa is currently on a two-day State Visit in Qatar at the invitation of His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Amir of the State of Qatar.

The visit occurs in the context of three decades of diplomatic relations. The two countries will celebrate the 30th anniversary of establishing diplomatic relations on 11 May 2024. This is President Ramaphosa's first visit to the State of Qatar as Head of State.

President Ramaphosa told the roundtable that while the political relationship between the two countries is strong, much more can be done with each other in areas of trade, investment and economic development. 

“For this reason, I am particularly pleased that I have had an opportunity to engage with both the Qatari Business Association and the Qatar Chamber of Commerce earlier. I want to point to five features of the South African economy that offer us the opportunity to build and expand our economic relationship,” he said. 

Firstly, the President highlighted that South Africa is Africa’s most industrialised economy with well-established companies.

He told the roundtable that many of these companies are active in the Middle East and Qatar. The President mentioned companies like Sasol in the petro-chemical sector with its advanced technologies and iconic consumer brands such as Nandos and Ocean Basket. 

“South African has well developed manufacturing and services sectors. South African agriculture and agro-processing companies are world class, and we can support the Food Security Program of the State of Qatar. 

“Beyond these, South Africa is developing its expertise in areas such as pharmaceuticals, the space industry and advanced manufacturing,” he said. 

Secondly, the President said South Africa is developing greater market access across the world. 

He mentioned that the country has free trade agreements in place with the European Union and the United Kingdom and is about to implement the African Continental Free Trade Area, uniting 54 economies into a large tariff-free market intended to cover 1.3 billion consumers. 

In addition, South Africa currently has access to the US market on preferential terms through the African Growth and Opportunities Act (AGOA) and preferential access to certain Latin American markets. 

Thirdly, President Ramaphosa emphasised that the African continent has vast resources of critical minerals that will be used as the world embraces cleaner, greener growth. 

With Qatar’s experience, technology and capital in the petrochemicals, natural gas and energy infrastructure, President Ramaphosa said government is looking to companies from Qatar partnering with South Africa as it implement its just energy transition.

Fourthly, the President highlighted that the country is embarking on far-ranging economic reforms that provide opportunities for partnerships between foreign investors and domestic firms in South Africa. 

He said the energy market is being restructured. The public electricity utility, Eskom, which faced severe challenges, has improved maintenance of its generation fleet and has received debt relief from the State to strengthen its financial position. 

“Private energy generation, specifically in renewables, constitutes a growing share of total energy generated. Since the implementation of regulatory changes, the pipeline of private sector generation projects has increased to over 100 projects representing more than 10,000 MW of potential new capacity,” he said. 

Fifthly, the President told the business roundtable that the country has a stable legal system, strong protections of property rights, a deep capital market with Africa’s largest stock exchange, and a growing pool of skilled employees. 

“South Africa is ready to build partnerships for faster, sustainable and inclusive growth. South Africa is keen to deepen our bilateral relationship with Qatar. We look forward to partnering in sectors such as agro-processing, automotive, aquaculture, manufacturing, hydrocarbons, infrastructure, hospitality and tourism, to mention a few.

“I invite Qatar to join us in developing a portfolio of South African investments that your sovereign wealth fund and your private sector can participate in,” the President said. 

President Ramaphosa commended the business delegations from South Africa and Qatar for their engagement, adding that he look forward to successful outcomes. – SAnews.gov.za 

DikelediM
Wed, 11/15/2023 - 15:20

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Read moreSA, Qatar bolster relations

Load shedding requires urgent intervention, Ramokgopa tells Parliament

Location: News

Load shedding requires urgent intervention, Ramokgopa tells Parliament

Minister in the Presidency responsible for Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, has told the Portfolio Committee on Public Enterprises that load shedding is an existential problem, both in economic and social terms, which requires urgent intervention.

The Minister said the South African economy could be losing up to R1 billion a day, depending on the intensity of load shedding.

“This is severe. The amount of jobs that have been lost as a result of load shedding are projected to be upwards of 800 000 just for the current year, if you were to go by the modelling that has been done by some of the reputable institutions.

“I'm trying to convey the message that we are dealing with a major problem that undermines the overall growth of the South African economy,” he said on Wednesday. 

Ramokgopa said as a result of this, President Ramaphosa found it appropriate to provide a comprehensive and compelling response to the crisis by unveiling the Energy Action Plan (EAP), which has about five outcomes.

The five priority outcomes, Ramokgopa said, are to fix Eskom and improve the availability of existing supply; enable private investment in new generation capacity; accelerate procurement of new capacity from renewables, gas and battery storage; unleash investment in rooftop solar PV for businesses and households, and to "undermine the political interest calculation, ensuring that there's transparency in how costs are located and how tariffs are determined". 

Expanding on the first priority, the Minister said they have to improve the availability of existing suppliers.

“So the focus will be on the existing fleet of Eskom coal-fired power stations, a focus on Koeberg Nuclear Power Station and also the importation of hydro that we are getting from Mozambique, ensuring that first we address the reliability of this unit... [and reduce] the rate of abrupt failure of these units, and address their efficiency as they run, then approximate their design capacity,” he said. 

Turning to the second priority, Ramokgopa said that it exists to ensure that significant private sector investment is attracted, and this is supported by the reforms that were introduced on the generation side. 

He said there is a significant amount of project pipeline as a result of the reforms that have been introduced on the generation side, which focuses on the private sector and new generation capacity. 

Generation performance 

On the overall performance of units, Ramokgopa told the portfolio committee that the trendline has essentially been going up.

"If you look at the available capacity, you can see that it is beginning to pick up from what the situation was in May, which was used as a baseline." 

The Minister said they were addressing factors that have contributed to increased load shedding over the past week.

"... There is the good and there's also the bad. The good is that the trendline is going up and the bad is that there are things that we admit that we can improve on, especially better planning, returning the units on time, and ensuring that gradually, we continue to reduce the intensity of load shedding,” the Minister said.
 
He said they are taking advantage of the warmer period the country is now in. 

“We have been ramping up planned maintenance... [We need to] make sure that we fix [the units] and when they come back, they're healthier and they're able to perform,” he said.
 
As part of improving the issues at Eskom, Ramokgopa said they have returned two of the three units that failed at Eskom last year in October as a result of challenges related to the Flue-gas desulfurization (FGD) unit, which is a mechanical component that houses a chemical process meant to reduce the amount of sulphur content that is emitted into the environment. 

“We asked for a special dispensation to bypass that Flue-gas desulfurization unit and then we accepted that there are environmental costs, and that's why we put together a comprehensive health plan to... mitigate the environmental costs, and those were approved by the Minister of Environment. 

“Of course, we are going to return to normality, essentially to go back to the original design of going through the Flue-gas desulfurization by the end of the year 2024. 

“But now we've got that relief and two of those three units are back. Unit 1 and 3 are back, and we anticipate to bring Unit 2 by end of the month, and then we'll be firing Unit 5 at Kusile by the third week of December. So we project to get another 1 600 megawatts,” the Minister said. 

The Minister told the portfolio committee that they are currently focusing on four broad areas, which include the facilitation of renewables.

"It's important to not just over rely on Eskom, which is aging. We have committed to a decarbonisation agenda. We're committed to the nationally determined contribution the net zero path. Of course, we have extended the life of these power stations as a result of the challenges that we're currently facing. 

“So we [have] delayed the decommissioning. It will happen but it's delayed. The key is facilitating renewables, and transmission is a big part of that." – SAnews.gov.za
 

DikelediM
Wed, 11/15/2023 - 12:51

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Read moreLoad shedding requires urgent intervention, Ramokgopa tells Parliament

Understanding Energy Law: An Overview of the Regulatory Landscape

Location: MyPR

Energy Law involves the regulation of, and transactions within, the energy sector from its procurement to its generation and distribution, and includes the ancillary commercial and financing-related agreements required for the smooth operation of the process. Who is the regulator of the energy industry in South Africa  In South Africa, the regulation of the electricity …

Read moreUnderstanding Energy Law: An Overview of the Regulatory Landscape

Eskom’s Hex Battery Energy Storage System is a step in the correct direction

Location: News

Eskom's Hex Battery Energy Storage System is a step in the right direction

Projects like Eskom’s Hex Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in Worcester in the Western Cap can assist the country in ending load shedding.

This is according to Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan who said these kinds of projects create hope that sooner rather than later, South Africa is going to overcome the challenge of load shedding. 

Minister Gordhan was delivering remarks at the launch of Eskom’s Battery Energy Storage System at the Hex substation in the Breede Valley Municipality.

The project – which was launched on Thursday - is a first in Africa. 

“If we do more of these kinds of projects in other parts of the country, which is what Eskom intends to do, we will see the end of load shedding pretty soon. Today, after a few hiccups, you see in live form, the launch of this BESS project right in front of us. It is a great achievement for Eskom and the country. 

“Eskom is demonstrating that it can have a sense of urgency, it can have an important quality that we all need in South Africa and elsewhere – which is the ability to innovate and create new ways of doing things. And not just think about them, but concretely deliver them. That is the key,” the Minister said. 

BESS is a giant step in the right direction to support the Just Energy Transition (JET) programme for boosting green energy as a renewable alternative source. As renewable energy begins to grow, so does the demand for the installation of Battery Energy Storage Systems.

The Hex battery storage project is the first part of Eskom’s Battery Energy Storage System rollout scheduled for construction in the Western Cape, Northern Cape, Easter Cape and KwaZulu-Natal.

Through these kinds of projects, the Minister said, the country will grow economically and be able to create more jobs. 

“We are going to get more investments, not just in the Western Cape but the whole country. Our younger people can look toward to a much better life than those of us that have lived through the last few decades.

“So, this is an opportunity to demonstrate to our own people and citizens, and the globe, that South Africans are innovative, and can deliver world class solutions like the one that we actually see today,” he said. 

The Minister emphasised that it is important that focus is placed on what is best for the country, and what is best for the people of the country, and not for the few individuals who want to become rich as a result of these projects. 

Quoting the recent Census results, Gordhan said that there are 62 million people who must be beneficiaries of these sorts of projects and of the work that is being done. 

The Minister reiterated government’s aim which is to have enough electricity or energy security in this country.

“So, there must be a reserve, just like you have in a savings account for a day when you need some cash. In the same way, you need an energy savings account because you don’t know when you are going to need extra energy. 

“Right now, we have a shortage. We need to get to a point where we have a surplus. And we need to continue keeping that surplus. And Eskom as an institution is going to play a crucial part in developing that surplus through the investment of the private sector in renewables and other forms of energy,” the Minister said. 

He explained that the 120 battery banks cost a fair amount of money - R830 million - and during the construction 255 residents of the greater Worcester area were employed. 

He said they must take the experience and the lessons that will be learnt from this project and use it elsewhere, to make whatever changes that are necessary to have more successful projects in the remaining provinces. 

Minister Gordhan extended his gratitude to the funders. He said that without the concessional funding that they have for Eskom from the World Bank, African Development Bank, and the New Development Bank, they would not have been able to prosecute this project.

He also thanked Hyosung Heavy Industries, who supplied the batteries. The Minister further thanked Eskom for thinking about this idea and for researching the idea. - SAnews.gov.za

 

DikelediM
Fri, 11/10/2023 - 10:40

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Bid to lower intensity of load shedding on track

Location: News

Bid to lower intensity of load shedding on track

Minister in the Presidency for Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, says it is important for Eskom to up the reliability of generating units in order to maintain the credibility of efforts to lessen the intensity of load shedding.

The Minister was speaking at Arnot Power Station in Mpumalanga on Monday, where he kicked off a series of follow-up visits to power stations.

“We are on track to reducing significantly the intensity of load shedding. Of course, we had a period of eight days with no load shedding, then we hit a snag where 11 units were out as a result of boiler tube leaks. Those units are coming back.

“It’s important that we maintain the reliability of these units so that we are able to restore and maintain the credibility of our efforts and the ability of Eskom to resolve this challenge,” he said.

Ramokgopa said over the next two months, more generating units are expected to return to service – further boosting generation capacity for the grid.

“We are expecting Kusile [Power Station] Unit 2 to come on stream by the third week of November, and Unit 5 by the third week of December.

“But that’s not sufficient. We need additional generation capacity, especially renewable energy sources, because the Eskom fleet alone won’t resolve load shedding and secure energy security. That’s why we are investing a lot of effort and resources to ensure that we find a solution for the financing and rollout of transmission,” he said.

The Minister said financing for the rollout will cost “upward of R390 billon".

“We are at an advanced stage, and taking a proposal to Cabinet to say this is how we think we can be able to tap into the liquidity that exists in the private sector so that we don’t just over-rely on these units that are ageing.

“We need additional generation sources and those principally have to be renewables. But renewables need transmission capacity… renewables also thrive on the existence of baseloads [like] coal, nuclear and hydro, [which] are some of those that are important to the resolution of this problem,” Ramokgopa said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Tue, 11/07/2023 - 10:03

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Court freezes R29m in assets of alleged Eskom electricity voucher syndicate

Location: News

Court freezes R29m in assets of alleged Eskom electricity voucher syndicate

The Pretoria Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU) of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has been granted an order to freeze properties and cash worth R29 million belonging to a syndicate that allegedly stole from Eskom.

NPA Regional Spokesperson, Lumka Mahanjana, explained that a former employee of Eskom, Mothelli Theletsane, allegedly stole a Master Vending Unit from the company, which dispenses electricity coupons for consumers.

“Theletsane, who has since passed on, was employed at Eskom on a contract basis and worked in the pre-paid environment, supporting Eskom’s pre-paid vending system. He operated as a supervisor in his role and therefore obtained intimate knowledge of the operations of machines, and he also acquired technical expertise on the ins and outs of the Credit Dispensing Units (CDU).

“[He] also acquired, unknowingly to Eskom, a Master Vending Unit (MVU), that can generate limitless prepaid electricity vouchers and a few CDUs which he concealed after his exit from Eskom. It was discovered that Theletsane was allegedly running a ghost vending operation, whereby he illegally generated electricity vouchers to the value of over R36 million and sold them to the public for his benefit,” Mahanjana said.

She said following Theletsane’s death, the illegal “business” was allegedly taken over by Theletsane’s wife, Thandi Theletsane and her three sons, Papi and Tebello Theletsane and Sibusiso Migal.

“The business became so lucrative that it was expanded throughout all the nine provinces. Through the syndicate, the Theletsane family and the company, Mothelli Theletsane Holdings and Investment (PTY) Ltd, managed to acquire 27 movable and 39 immovable properties worth over R23 million from the proceeds of crime,” Mahanjana said.

The family members are standing trial together with 10 other suspects, namely: Petrus Mohapi, Donald Rammusi, Victor Mdlalose, Joseph Mdlalose, Florence Mdlalose, Daniel Moleko, Xolani Dube, Lebohang Thabanyana, Raymond Mohapi and Sebabatso Mbele.

“This matter does not only highlight the effective cooperation and collaboration between various crime-fighting agencies within the NPA, as well as the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), but shows determination and commitment by the NPA to ensure that money stolen from the state is returned,” Mahanjana said.

The criminal case is expected back in court on 15 November. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Tue, 11/07/2023 - 10:24

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Government activities for the week, 6 November – 10 November 2023

Location: News

Government activities for the week, 6 November - 10 November 2023

On Monday, 6 November, the Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, briefs media in Pretoria on the outcomes of the Cabinet meeting held on Wednesday, 1 November.

From Monday, 6 November, the Minister in the Presidency responsible for Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, is expected to embark on a series of follow-up visits to Eskom power stations. The follow-up visits will begin at Arnot and Hendrina power stations in Mpumalanga on Monday, 6 November.  On Wednesday, 8 November, the Minister Ramokgopa will visit Kriel and Matla power stations in Mpumalanga. On Thursday, 9 November, he will visit Camden power station in Mpumalanga.

On Monday, 6 November, the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, hosts the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Ukraine, Dmytro Kubela, for political consultations.

On Monday, 6 November, the Deputy Minister of Transport, Lisa Mangcu will lead a clean-up and awareness campaign at the Rand West City Local Municipality in Randfontein.

From Monday, 6 November to Tuesday, 7 November, the Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities (DWYPD) and the Office of the Premier of KwaZulu-Natal embark on a service delivery drive to address psychosocial challenges that women, youth and persons with disabilities are confronted with in Kwa-Nongoma.

On Tuesday, 7 November, the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Barbara Creecy, will host a consultative stakeholder engagement meeting on South Africa’s negotiating position ahead of the third Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC3), which is  scheduled to take place in Nairobi, Kenya from 13 – 19 November 2023.

From Tuesday, 7 November to Thursday, 9 November, the Department of Employment and Labour will host a three-day Occupational Health and Safety Conference in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.

On Thursday, 9 November, the Electoral Commission will present the Atlas of Results for National and Provincial Elections to Parliament.

 

 

Matona
Mon, 11/06/2023 - 12:10

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Electricity Minister to embark on Eskom power station visits

Location: News

Electricity Minister to embark on Eskom power station visits

Minister in the Presidency responsible for Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, is expected to embark on a series of follow-up visits to Eskom power stations.

The follow-up visits will begin at Arnot and Hendrina power stations in Mpumalanga on Monday.

“The visits are a follow-up to the initial round of visits that Minister Ramokgopa undertook upon his appointment as the Minister of Electricity in March 2023. During the visits, the Minister sought to acquire more insights into the challenges facing the power stations.

“[This is] in order to advance the necessary interventions required to fix Eskom in line with the objectives of the Energy Action Plan to improve the reliability of electricity supply and end load shedding,” the Ministry in the Presidency for Electricity said in a statement.

On Wednesday, 8 November, the Minister will visit Kriel and Matla power stations, which are also in Mpumalanga. On Thursday, he will visit Camdem power plant.

Ramokgopa is expected to visit Lethabo plant in Gauteng on Monday, 13 November. He will visit the Ankerling and Koeberg plants in the Western Cape on Tuesday, 14 November.

“Minister Ramakgopa will be engaging with management, unions and workers during his upcoming visits,” said the Ministry on Saturday. – SAnews.gov.za

Neo
Sat, 11/04/2023 - 19:38

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Municipalities apply for Eskom debt relief

Location: News

Municipalities apply for Eskom debt relief

More than 60 municipalities who owe Eskom for unpaid bulk electricity services have applied for government’s debt relief arrangement.

This was revealed by Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana while delivering the Medium Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS) in Parliament on Wednesday.

“By October 2023, 67 applications had been submitted, totalling R56.8 billion or 97 % of total municipal debt owed to Eskom at end-March 2023. Twenty-eight applications have been approved; the remainder are being assessed and verified with provincial treasuries,” Godongwana said.

The programme was announced earlier this year to assist ailing municipalities who are struggling to pay their electricity bills.

“The debt-relief arrangement for Eskom outlined in the 2023 Budget noted that a large proportion of outstanding municipal debt is owed to Eskom. National government has introduced support to relieve municipalities of debt to Eskom.

“The debt…will be written off over a three-year period, in equal annual tranches. This is provided the municipality complies with set conditions. These conditions include enforcing strict credit controls, enhanced revenue collection [and] up-to-date payment of Eskom monthly current account.

“The ultimate goal is the profound transformation of these municipalities, by empowering them to build financial resilience, amplify their capacity to generate sustainable revenue, and rekindle a culture of paying for services rendered,” Godongwana said.

Eskom Debt Relief Amendment Bill

At the delivery of the MTBPS, Godongwana also tabled the Eskom Debt Relief Amendment Bill which seeks to enhance the “enforceability of the conditions agreed” under the R254 billion government to Eskom debt relief agreement.

“It provides for the payment of interest by Eskom on amounts advanced as part of the debt relief loan. The Amendment also provides for the reduction of the amount of debt relief available to Eskom, in the event that the entity does not comply with the National Treasury conditions.

“These principles and strict conditionalities, greatly enhanced by the Amendment, are a key part of how we will deal with Eskom and all other state-owned entities, to avoid a repeat of the mistakes of previous bailouts,” Godongwana said.

Meanwhile, the extended MTBPS says Eskom’s R254 billion debt relief has been incorporated into both the balance sheets of government and Eskom – “implying an increase in government debt”.

“As at 30 September 2023, government has disbursed R16 billion of the R78 billion debt relief for 2023/24. A task team has been established with officials from the National Treasury, the Department of Public Enterprises and Eskom to monitor compliance with the conditions and report quarterly on whether Eskom qualifies for the conversion of the loan to equity.

“This [debt relief] arrangement will enable the utility to undertake much‐needed maintenance and investment, and to improve its financial position. Eskom’s financial sustainability remains at risk from poor generating plant performance, declining sales, lack of cost‐reflective tariffs, rising municipal arrears and high debt‐service costs,” the policy statement noted. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Wed, 11/01/2023 - 14:11

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Read moreMunicipalities apply for Eskom debt relief

Reforms can enhance GDP

Location: News

Reforms can enhance GDP

Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana says the Medium Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS) prioritises reforms aimed at enhancing the growth of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

He was delivering the MTBPS in the National Assembly in Parliament in Cape Town on Wednesday.

“To this end, excluding interest, funding for capital projects remains the fastest-growing item by economic classification. Furthermore, we are introducing a new mechanism for improving the pace of delivery of capital projects,” he said.

The Minister was cheerful about the electricity sector’s “enormously positive transformation” due to reforms.

“We are reaping the fruits of our efforts to reform the electricity sector, including the easing of restrictions on self-generation and encouraging private investment in the area.

“At the same time, we recognise the potential loss of revenue due to private electricity generation, and the fact that traditional revenue models relied on by public entities like Eskom, face serious disruption.

“It is for these reasons that our electricity reforms are holistic, evidenced-based, and geared to find a balanced solution to our electricity supply challenges. They take into account not just a particular entity but the transformation of the sector as a whole,” he said.

According to the extended MTBPS, some of the major reforms in the energy sector comprise::

  • Three projects under the Risk Mitigation Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme, with capacity totalling 150 MW, will be ready for connection to the grid in November 2023.
  • By 2025, nine projects with a total capacity of over 1 000 MW will be connected to the grid under the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme, with a further 1 000 MW expected in the next phase.
  • In June, Eskom released interim rules to ensure fair and transparent allocation of limited grid capacity.
  • In August, Cabinet approved an amendment to the Electricity Regulation Act (2006) for public comment. The amendment aims to establish an independent transmission system operator and a competitive electricity market.

Turning to the logistics system, the Minister said the system faces significant challenges which have cost “up to 5 percent of GDP in 2022, with losses in the region of R50 billion in the minerals sector alone”.

The extended MTBPS notes that the cost of rail inefficiencies last year is estimated at R411 billion.

“Given the scale of the challenges, the National Logistics Crisis Committee was instituted to broaden reforms in the sector and prioritise reforms aimed at resolving the immediate crisis, while also addressing the structural aspects hampering the sector.

“This approach is consistent with the key lesson from our reform of the electricity sector, that resolving these challenges must be based on transforming the sector, and not trying to save an entity,” he said.

Godongwana said a “dysfunctional” Transnet – which remains at the heart of the logistics sector and the movement of goods – has serious implications for business, people’s lives, the economy and the country’s global competitiveness.

“No modern economy can thrive and grow new industries if rail lines are beset by delays, and ports are unable to efficiently handle incoming and outgoing cargo. Transnet’s performance in this regard has been underwhelming and its operations have been strained by a worsening financial state.

“Recognising the seriousness of the situation, the National Treasury is working with Transnet and the Department of Public Enterprises to ensure that Transnet can meet its immediate debt obligations,” he said.

The Minister said in this regard, a Freight Logistics roadmap will guide reforms in the sector.

“The roadmap sets out a clear path for enhancing efficiencies, facilitating the introduction of competition and leveraging the financial and technical support of the private sector.

“Only once these three objectives are reflected in Transnet’s corporate and operational plans, will there be a conversation about whether and how government can provide financial support to transform the logistics sector,” Godongwana said.

Improvements in areas such as financial management and financial governance are being prepared.

“These reforms will respond to the recommendations of the Zondo Commission, the Mpati Commission, and the Nugent Commission.

“I will…table an Omnibus Bill for public consultation, which will include key amendments to various pieces of legislation, including the Public Finance Management Act of 1999 (PFMA), Municipal Finance Management Act of 2003 (MFMA) and South African Revenue Service Act (SARS Act),” Godongwana said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Wed, 11/01/2023 - 14:13

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Read moreReforms can enhance GDP

Partnerships are key to decarbonizing the South African economy.

Location: MyPR

The “energy trilemma” of delivering lower carbon energy that is affordable and secure is an issue facing all businesses and policymakers in the energy space. We believe that the world’s leading energy companies meaningfully want to achieve all three priorities. In January 2023, the New York Times reported that 2022 was the fifth-hottest year on …

Read morePartnerships are key to decarbonizing the South African economy.

Eskom implements load shedding

Location: News

Eskom implements load shedding

Eskom has implemented Stage 2 load shedding in a bid to replenish emergency reserves ahead of the colder weather expected this week.

Today (Monday), Stage 2 is being implemented until 4pm and will be followed by Stage 3 until 5am.

Thereafter Stage 2 will return during the day with that pattern repeating until further notice.

“Breakdowns are currently at 16 150MW of generating capacity while the capacity out of service for planned maintenance is 5 950MW. Over the past 24 hours, a generation unit each at Duvha, Grootvlei, Kusile and Matimba power stations was taken offline for repairs.

“In the same period, a generation unit at Kriel Power Station was returned to service. Eskom teams are working tirelessly to ensure that additional generating units are returned to service as soon as possible,” the power utility said.

Eskom has urged consumers to use power sparingly during this week.

“Eskom’s load forecast for the evening peak demand is 24 824MW and Monday’s peak demand is anticipated to be 27 557MW. We appeal to the members of the public to continue reducing demand by switching off non-essential appliances.

“We would like to thank those who do heed the call to use electricity sparingly and efficiently, including switching off geysers and pool pumps from 5pm to 9pm, as this lowers demand and helps in alleviating the pressure on the power system and contributes to lower stages of load shedding,” Eskom said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Mon, 10/30/2023 - 09:40

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The Benefits of Prepaid Electricity Meters

Location: MyPR

Empowering Homeowners with Control and Savings Saving the environment by reducing the consumption of scarce water and electricity Making payment collection a breeze Prepaid electricity meters have emerged as a practical solution for homeowners seeking more control over their electricity usage and expenses. These innovative devices allow users to monitor and manage their energy consumption …

Read moreThe Benefits of Prepaid Electricity Meters

SA freight rail sector requires R50 billion investment

Location: News

SA freight rail sector requires R50 billion investment

Transnet Freight Rail (TFR) will need in excess of R50 billion investment in the next five years to improve capacity and the freight rail performance.

In recent years, Transnet has experienced challenges characterised by the condition of the network, security issues, including cable theft and infrastructure vandalism, as well as the unavailability and reliability of the locomotives.

Addressing a webinar on the state of freight and rail in South Africa, TFR Acting General Manager: Rail Network and Projects, Bessie Mabunda, said the entity requires a combination of funding to deal with the network backlog and to continually maintain the network at the desired standard.

In addition, Mabunda said a level of capital funding will be required to sustain the network at full capacity.

Transnet’s primary business is to provide rail transport of commodities for the export, regional and domestic markets.

“The National Rail Policy, approved by Cabinet on 23 March 2022, provides an opportunity for funding through full network reflective tariff, as well as  government support and public participation. From a network restoration point of view, we have identified that some of the corridors have a high requirement due to years of underfunding.

“There are certain lines that require more intensive maintenance due to the age of the line, the design topography and the impacts of weather. Certain lines are also more prone to theft and vandalism, especially our electrifying lines and our fully signaled areas, which have been under siege in the last couple of years,” Mabunda said on Thursday.

From a 'sustaining capex' point of view, Mabunda said the biggest concern is that most of the train authorisation systems are actually at the end of life and must be replaced.

“New technology is being considered, which will be less prone to theft. With regards to the telecom system, our requirements are mostly driven by the legal compliance to Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) and similar regulations,” Mabunda said.

In an effort to address the security challenges, the entity will implement the outcomes based security (OBS), which relies on boots on the ground and vehicles guarding the network.

“The OBS places the responsibility of protecting the network on the service providers, who implement a combination of various security measures, including physical guarding, intelligence as well as technology such as drones, CCTVs and smart fencing.

“Over and above what the OBS providers are doing, the TFR security has put in place strategies that are meant to curb the scourge of security incidents. These include replacing copper cables with copper magnesium that has no resale value and therefore will deter criminal in terms of stealing cables,” she said.

The entity is also piloting a system on some of the lines, which will allow it to pick up intrusions close to the rail network before the criminals cut the cables.

In addition, Transnet is employing other measures such as target hardening for substations and target hardening to protect the signaling equipment.

With Transnet’s peace officer status, internal security has powers to make arrests.

“We have been carrying out specialised operations at hotspot areas; we have been focusing on illicit markets in conjunction with law enforcement agencies. There has been a national logistics committee that has been established and one of the work streams focuses on an integrated approach to fighting crime with support from law enforcement agencies.

“We are also creating capability to ensure effective identification and investigation of organised crime groupings and follow up on any suspected internal involvement. It is important that when arrests are made that we are able to connect these individuals to other crimes that could have taken place in the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa, Eskom and City Power networks, so that we have stronger cases and improve our chances of getting a successful conviction,” she said.

As pertaining to the rolling stock, Transnet has enlisted the assistance of various original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) for their fleet.

“The original equipment manufacturers of stock are critical to the supply of spare parts, especially parts and systems that have inherent intellectual property linked to it. We have concluded and awarded one of the contracts, it supports our diesel fleet. There are three contracts that we do need to award. The second contract is at final approval stage and the last contract is in technical evaluation,” Mabunda said.

She said returning the long standing locomotives into service is only part of the solution, as there is a further requirement for continued sustainability of the fleet to ensure reliability and availability.

“This we can only do through long-term agreements with the respective OEMs in the form of Material and Reliability Support Agreement (MRSA), where the OEMs provide, amongst others, the necessary parts, technical support as well as guidance.

“The MRSA is in the final approval stage and the second contract is in the negation phase. All of these initiatives are expected to be in place within the next few months, with the benefits being realised as early as the next financial year,” Mabunda said.

Transnet is also hard at work improving the status of the fleet by performing certain modifications through Transnet engineering, which has already seen a number of locomotives being returned to service using alternative compressors.

“We have a large order of compressors that will assist us in the interim to return some of the long-standing locomotives. We are also focusing on digital transformation.

“This is to transform the business by implementing integrated technologies and systems across the value chain including train planning, yard operations – that will allow us track and trace rolling stock, unlock value and drive efficiencies and position us for the railway of the future,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Thu, 10/26/2023 - 15:36

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World Bank supports SA’s transition to cleaner energy with a $1 billion loan

Location: News

World Bank supports SA’s transition to cleaner energy with a $1 billion loan

The World Bank Board has committed to support South Africa’s efforts to promote long-term energy security and a low carbon transition with a $1 billion Development Policy Loan (DPL).

“We are pleased to support South Africa’s government, which has taken decisive reforms to address the challenges posed by the energy crisis. These reforms will benefit the people of South Africa - particularly the most vulnerable households - the economy, the environment, and advance the energy transition,” World Bank Country Director for South Africa Marie Francoise Marie-Nelly said on Wednesday.

The operation supports reforms in two critical areas. It facilitates the restructuring of the power sector through the unbundling of South Africa’s power utility, Eskom.

It supports the opening of the power market and aims at improving Eskom’s efficiency by redirecting its resources toward investments in transmission and maintenance of existing power plants.

The operation also supports a low carbon transition by encouraging private investment in renewable energy, including by households and small businesses, and strengthening carbon pricing instruments.

The World Bank noted that South Africa has been facing an ongoing energy crisis, which has had a marked negative impact on productivity and safety, at a time when the country has been working to implement a just transition to a low carbon economy.

In 2022, load shedding averaged eight hours per day, costing 2-3% of GDP growth to the economy.

“This operation comes at a crucial time for South Africa as it will provide much needed fiscal and technical support, enabling us to pursue our policy priorities in the energy sector including easing the electricity crisis in the long term, stimulating private sector engagement and creating jobs in the renewables space,” National Treasury Deputy-Director General: Asset and Liability Management Mmakgoshi Lekhethe said.

South Africa is among the world’s top 20 greenhouse gas (GHG) emitters. Energy represents 81% of South Africa’s emissions, of which 45% comes from electricity.

“The operation is expected to enhance economic activity and job creation from new investments in renewable energy generation. Poor and vulnerable households will be cushioned against recent increases in electricity tariffs. Poorer households and businesses - particularly women and Black women-owned businesses - will be supported through access to credit by commercial banks to enable them to invest in solar technology,” the World Bank said.

The operation will also contribute to gradual reductions in water and air pollution, as a result of reduced reliance on coal for power generation.

“This is anticipated to lead to substantial improvements in the quality of life of South African households in the long term. South African authorities will also receive technical assistance to identify future reforms necessary to manage the social costs associated with the decommissioning of coal-fired power.

“The operation has been a collaborative effort between the government, the World Bank and three partners, namely the African Development Bank (AfDB), KfW Development Bank (KfW), and Government of Canada. It was informed by South Africa’s development priorities, including the Presidential Energy Plan and the Just Energy Transition,” the World Bank said. – SAnews.gpv.za

 

 

nosihle
Thu, 10/26/2023 - 09:56

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Climate Commission to hold Komati Power Station community consultations

Location: News

Climate Commission to hold Komati Power Station community consultations

The Presidential Climate Commission (PCC) says it expects to host a multi-stakeholder community consultation at Blinkin Village in Mpumalanga to "consider and discuss its Interim Report and Recommendation on the Komati Power Station Decommission and Repurposing process”.

The community consultation will be held on Friday.

“The report follows initial submissions and an oversight visit conducted by the Commission on 7 July this year. The PCC visited the Eskom Komati Power Station earlier this year with the intention of understanding the process of decommissioning and repurposing, and make recommendations on the lessons learnt from the process.

“The consultation on Friday follows from the decision of the commission’s 11th quarterly meeting held on the 29th of September, to go back and consult with various stakeholders about the ongoing process of decommissioning and repurposing the Komati Power Station and to enrich and address gaps on the PCC’s interim report and the associated recommendations,” the PCC said in a statement.

The Komati Power Station was officially taken off the grid in October last year after serving the population since 1961.

Since then, Eskom has revealed that it will use the power station as a renewable energy site.

The Komati site is expected to be powered by 150MW of solar power, 70MW of wind power and at least 150MW of battery storage power. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Wed, 10/25/2023 - 10:53

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Eskom’s generation steadily improving – Ramokgopa

Location: News

Eskom's generation steadily improving - Ramokgopa

Improved performance of Eskom’s generating fleet is beginning to turn the tide against load shedding.

This is according to Minister in the Presidency for Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, who delivered a statement on the implementation of the Energy Action Plan (EAP) in the National Assembly on Tuesday.

The EAP was introduced by President Cyril Ramaphosa in July last year to address the intensification of load shedding.

“Generation performance continues to improve from the May 2023 days of 27410MW [generation] to 28 883MW in October month to date. Last week, we saw generation breach the psychological mark of 30 000MW largely buoyed by the return to service of Kusile units 3 and 1 over the past month.

“This improved generation and lower than projected demand has allowed for exceptional increase in planned outage or good maintenance. The increased planned outage means that we are improving the overall performance capacity of the fleet, improving reliability and efficiency and steadily ensuring that we navigate to an equilibrium between demand and supply buffered by healthy reserve margin,” he said.

The Minister added that since May this year, unplanned outages where generating units break down have been fewer.

“This is a function of the increased planned maintenance and improved reliability of Units.  

“Following a period of increased planned maintenance between mid-August 2023 and mid-October 2023, UCLF has dropped to 13527 MW from the May 2023 baseline of 17369 MW. This represents an improvement in the available capacity of 3841 MW, amounting to over three stages of load shedding,” he said.

Kusile Power Station

Ramokgopa told the National Assembly that the improvement at Kusile power station bears testament to the belief that the power station can drive forward Eskom’s improvement in generation capacity.

In October last year, units at the power station went offline following a duct failure.

“We have always been firm that Kusile Power Station would anchor the drive for generation capacity to get ahead of the demand curve.

“The two units returned have injected an additional 1600 MW over the past month, whilst Units 2 and 5 will add another 1600 MW. This means the 4 Kusile Units will provide a total of 3200 MW of base load by December 2023. The last remaining Kusile unit, Unit 6, is planned to be synchronised in August 2024.

“The early return of the two units is a result of judicious and smart engineering. We anticipate returning Unit 2 by the third week of November 2023. Additionally, Kusile Unit 4…was returned to service on 17 September 2023, three days ahead of the planned date.

“Kusile Unit 5 was originally planned for completion on 28 October 2023 but was rescheduled to later in order to prioritise the return of the three commercial Kusile units. Unit 5 is now scheduled to be synchronised by December 2023,” he said.

Forging ahead

The Minister acknowledged that load shedding continues to take a heavy toll on South Africans.

However, Ramokgopa expressed confidence that the task of lowering and eventually ending load shedding is well underway.

“The national energy crisis continues to be the single biggest existential challenge in post-apartheid South Africa, and we must continue to harness all efforts to arrest further haemorrhaging caused by load shedding to our economy and the degradation of the quality of lives of ordinary South Africans.

“In May 2023, I stood in this august House to deliver an executive statement outlining the transversal interventions we were making to reduce the intensity and frequency of load shedding and to articulate our plans in relation to the winter plan. Working with the dedicated staff at Eskom and industry experts, we have successfully navigated through the winter season and are beginning to turn the tide,” Ramokgopa said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Tue, 10/24/2023 - 15:16

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New State-of-the-art Primary Healthcare Clinic to Meet Growing Health Demands in Botleng Extension 6

Location: News
GE

As part of GE Vernova's (https://www.GEVernova.com/) commitment to support communities in areas it operates in, GE Vernova's Steam Power business, is proud to announce the handover of the Botleng Extension 6 Community Health Centre, a first-of-its-kind primary healthcare facility in Delmas, Mpumalanga, South Africa. The clinic was officially handed over to the Mpumalanga Department of Health and marked by an official opening ceremony in Nkangala District of Victor Khanye Local Municipality.

The Botleng Extension 6 Community Health Centre represents an approximated R75 million investment towards the turnkey construction and full equipment kitting of the clinic in efforts to uplift the local healthcare infrastructure. The clinic will play a critical role in meeting the growing healthcare demands of the community and its surrounding areas. Up to 100 000 local beneficiaries will have access to comprehensive primary healthcare services including 24-hour emergency care, maternity, dentistry, eyecare, medical dispensary, and mental healthcare services.

While Botleng Extension 6, part of a rapidly growing settlement in Victor Khanye Local Municipality was being serviced by a mobile clinic with restricted services that visits the area twice a week, the new clinic will alleviate the community's burden of travelling great distances to access quality healthcare services. The state-of-the-art facility boasts of a cutting-edge maternity ward equipped with premium GE Healthcare ultrasound/V-scan equipment, ensuring precision healthcare for expectant mothers and their babies. In addition to this, GE Healthcare will roll-out technical, clinical, and soft skills training programmes for nurses and midwives at the clinic, enhancing the quality of healthcare services.

Premier of Mpumalanga, Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane expressed the provincial government's gratitude for this significant contribution to the healthcare infrastructure in the region. "This facility will be heralded and safeguarded by generations to come. Not only has it exceeded our standard infrastructural requirements but should be used as a benchmark for public service and infrastructural excellence," Mtshweni-Tsipane stated. "Thank you for leading by example and being a prime example of how private public partnerships can significantly aid our efforts and serve as catalysts for sustainable employment opportunity creation in our communities."

In line with its continuous strategy to empower local businesses, GE Vernova's Steam Power business supported local businesses and communities throughout the construction process where GVK-Siyazama Construction served as the principal contractor, overseeing construction activities. A minimum of 30% of the work was sub-contracted to local Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), and the general workforce was sourced entirely from the local community and empowered through accredited trade and skills development trainings. It was critical for the clinic's design approach to incorporate ecologically conscious solutions like rainwater harvesting, energy-efficient fittings and low maintenance landscaping throughout the construction process.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Emmanuel Thouet, GE Vernova's Steam Power SSA Regional Leader, expressed the company's commitment to driving social change through public-private partnerships. " Over the years, large infrastructure projects have provided us opportunities to create jobs and develop the critical skills needed to drive continuous growth in the energy sector. We recognize that for us to make a sustainable impact, we must be deliberate in our efforts to support social change," he stated. "Through our expertise and innovation, we are able to address social challenges by creating shared value. We are proud to be part of this transformative project that will significantly improve the social and economic vitality of the Botleng Extension 6 community."

Zandile Shange, Eskom General Manager for Kusile Power Plant Project, expressed her enthusiasm for the community-centric partnership Eskom enjoys with GE Vernova's Steam Power business in delivering this essential healthcare facility. " Health and wellness are fundamental human rights for all South Africans," Shange said. "The Botleng Extension 6 Community Health Centre represents a crucial step in providing accessible healthcare services to the people of this region. We are proud to be part of this initiative, which aligns with our mission to support the well-being of our communities and in accordance with one of our core values, ‘Sinobuntu'."

The Botleng Extension 6 Community Health Centre stands as a testament to the power of collaboration between industry leaders, government agencies, and the community to address critical healthcare needs and uplift local communities.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of GE.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Kashumba Macombe
Middle East & Africa Content Creation & Communications Specialist
GE Vernova
+27 71 372 3110
Kashumba.Macombe@ge.com

About GE Vernova:
GE Vernova is a planned, purpose-built global energy company that includes Power, Wind, and Electrification segments and is supported by its accelerator businesses of Advanced Research, Consulting Services, and Financial Services. 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 more than 80,000 employees across 140+ countries around the world. GE Vernova's Steam Power business provides a broad portfolio of technologies and services that help industrial and non-renewable energy power plants deliver reliable power as they transition to a lower carbon future.

GE Vernova's mission is embedded in its name –it retains its legacy, “GE,” as an enduring and hard-earned badge of quality and ingenuity. “Ver” / “verde” signal Earth's verdant and lush ecosystems. “Nova,” from the Latin “novus,” nods to a new, innovative era of lower carbon energy. Supported by the Company Purpose,The Energy to Change the World, GE Vernova will help deliver a more affordable, reliable, sustainable, and secure energy future. Learn more: GE Vernova (https://www.GEVernova.com/) and LinkedIn (https://apo-opa.info/3Qc09j6).

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Read moreNew State-of-the-art Primary Healthcare Clinic to Meet Growing Health Demands in Botleng Extension 6

Green shoots in resolving the energy crisis

Location: News

Green shoots in resolving the energy crisis

South Africa is beginning to turn the corner in resolving the energy crisis.

This according to Minister in the Presidency for Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, who was briefing the media on the implementation of the Energy Action Plan in Pretoria on Monday.

Improved performance of Eskom’s generating fleet meant the suspension of load shedding over the past weekend and much lower stages of the planned power outages during the week.

“We have turned the corner, although we are not out of the woods yet. We are beginning to show sustained improved performance over an extended period of time and this is good news in that it’s an affirmation and validation of the work that the team is doing at Eskom,” he said.

The Minister said the intensification of maintenance plans at Eskom are beginning to have a positive impact despite a difficult period in September when load shedding was intensified as a result of maintenance outages.

These maintenance outages are aimed at reducing the incidence of generating units tripping on their own and improving performance.

“These plans that have been put into motion are beginning to bear fruit. I did indicate some time ago when we were experiencing heightened levels of load shedding Stage 6, that essentially what we are dealing with is short term pain which is going to result in long term gain and we are beginning to see the kinds of gains that I was referring to.

“Our actions are deliberate. We are going to invest a lot of our efforts to ensure that we are able to maintain the units,” he said.

Ramokgopa insisted that both Eskom and the department will not show any signs of complacency going forward.

“It’s important that we shouldn’t be complacent and we have never been complacent…even when are beginning to see … green shoots. I think what that does is just bolster and raise the morale of the team to ensure that we even achieved greater results and we are able to save the South African economy.

“We introduced these interventions when we came into office, after the President appointed and sat with the team and thought the best way of getting out of this situation is to ensure that we make these investments into these units. What are the results - when the units come back, they remain on load for the longest period of hours.

“Essentially we have undermined the rate and frequency of failure of these units. We have improved on their efficiency. They are beginning to produce more… closer to their design capacity. This is not by accident. It’s not some intervention that comes from a place that is unknown. It is simple engineering and we really want to commend the team,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Mon, 10/23/2023 - 11:10

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Disaster teams respond to damage caused by heavy rains in KZN

Location: News

Disaster teams respond to damage caused by heavy rains in KZN

KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Disaster Management teams are currently assisting people affected by heavy rainfall and strong winds that caused widespread destruction, particularly in Mtubatuba in the northern part of the province, at the weekend.

According to the provincial Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs’ (CoGTA) initial report, at least four people from Mtubatuba lost their lives due to a thunderstorm accompanied by strong winds over the weekend. 

The storm ripped roofs off houses and caused damage to infrastructure, including power cables, roads, bridges, and vehicles.

“Up to now more than 70 houses in the Somkhele and KwaMyeki areas have been identified as destroyed. Some houses suffered complete damage, rendering families homeless. 

“There are also reports of damaged vehicles and in certain areas Eskom poles and cables are scattered across roads and people's properties. Community halls and churches have opened their doors to the public, while others have sought alternative accommodation with relatives,” the department said in a statement.

In the Harry Gwala District, the Greater Kokstad Municipality has also experienced heavy rains and a hailstorm in the Pakkies Location. Approximately six households were affected, with no reported fatalities, injuries, or displaced individuals at the time of the report. 

In the Umzimkhulu Municipality, heavy rains in the Madakeni location affected four households, with no fatalities reported, while in the Umgungundlovu District, about 23 households in the Rosetta informal settlement under the Mpofana Local Municipality were affected by the hailstorm on Saturday.

In Ulundi, under the Zululand District Municipality, a block of rental rooms was blown away by strong winds, with no reported injuries.

Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC, Bongiwe Sithole-Moloi has conveyed her sincere condolences to the families and friends affected by the incidents. 

Sithole-Moloi said disaster management teams will continue on-site assessments and provide relief including mattresses, blankets, food, and plastic sheeting.

“We are collaborating with other government departments, such as social development and human settlements, to aid all victims. Our teams, in conjunction with municipalities, will persist in assessments to determine necessary government intervention. 

“We extend condolences to those who lost loved ones during this period. While we acknowledge that certain incidents are unavoidable, such as the thunderstorm with strong winds that devastated houses in Mtubatuba, we encourage communities to take safety precautions, such as relocating to safer areas where possible,” Sithole-Moloi said. 

As heavy rains persist across various parts of the province, the MEC said provincial disaster management teams remain on high alert.

She said ongoing assessments will lead to an updated report, once the preliminary findings are consolidated.

Meanwhile, the MEC will today visit the affected families in Mtubatuba to convey her condolences to the families, and also conduct an assessment of the extensive damages in the area, where several homes were destroyed. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Mon, 10/23/2023 - 10:27

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