German firm’s Report on Eskom’s Infrastructure Awaited by Finance Minister Godongwana

The South African Finance Minister, Enoch Godongwana, is poised to receive a vital report pertaining to the depreciating electricity infrastructure of Eskom, prepared by the German energy consultancy, VGBE Energy e.V. Commissioned by the National Treasury, the report evaluates the state of 14 South African coal-fired power stations.

Speaking on the matter, the National Treasury Director-General, Duncan Pieterse, revealed that the forthcoming report could potentially guide Eskom to alleviate the current load shedding crisis plaguing the nation. The objective of engaging the German firm was to examine the feasibility of the 14 power plants and provide comprehensive assessment of the skills at these plants. The firm was also tasked to suggest operational enhancements potentially capable of boosting power generation.

According to Bloomberg, Pieterse mentioned that the recommendations include procurement, better management of maintenance regimes, and access to spare parts amongst others. He also asserted the importance of such reports for state-owned companies, advocating for their routine conduct.

The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) previously revealed that till date, Eskom contracts worth approximately R7.9 billion have been presented before civil courts. The SIU head, Andy Mothibi added that R1.5 billion had been recovered while the contracts set aside amounted to R10.2 billion. He also disclosed 5671 referrals made by the SIU to Eskom foreseeing disciplinary actions against employees obscured their business dealings with the power utility.