SUPPLY WARNINGS
No risk of Eskom running out of coal, says GM
Eskom is evaluating at least three requests for proposals (RFPs) for coal supply, including one for 100-million tonnes (Mt) and has other options, so it anticipates no difficulty in sourcing coal in future, Eskom’s senior GM of primary energy Ayanda Nteta said on Wednesday. She was responding to questions at the Fossil Fuel Foundation’s workshop on coal infrastructure and logistics about a looming "coal cliff" after 2020. For several years, coal analysts have warned that lack of investment in large, new mines would jeopardise Eskom’s ability to continue operating coal-fired power stations, which are 90% of its fleet. Xavier Prévost, senior analyst at XMP Consulting, said SA’s coal mine output fell 2% in September compared with a year ago. "The coal cliff predicted for 2020 is happening," he said, but if Eskom was willing to invest in cost-plus mines — the large mines that produce more than 80% of Eskom’s coal — it would help address the shortage. Nteta said Eskom was investing in it...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.