The day of reckoning has come for Eskom as it revealed its short-term plans to keep the lights on this winter, as well its slightly longer strategy for the nine months to December.
The envisioned approach was born from a review completed by the Eskom Technical Review Team, which the Minister and the Eskom board appointed in early March. The group, which includes academic, engineering and power systems professionals, was tasked to conduct a rapid but intensive review of the operations, maintenance and technical environment at Eskom power stations within four weeks of commencing their work.
Gordhan reiterated the point that maintaining energy supply should be a countrywide prerogative. He said the public should reciprocate to Eskom’s efforts by being more energy efficient to alleviate pressure from the grid, and indirectly start supporting the fight against climate change. Citizens of other countries have been involved with this practice much more than in the South African context, he added.
The other two goals include improving plant performance during the colder weather and bringing imports from Cahora Bassa back at full load, which will bring an additional 300 MW into play.
Including those in Soweto?