The state of the nation address was weak in terms of dealing with the current impasse between Eskom and the renewable energy independent power producers that has already been hugely detrimental to the economy, foreign investment and progressive energy planning. The promise that finally "Eskom will sign the outstanding power purchase agreements for renewable energy in line with the procured rounds" is important, but the point is that a state-owned entity such as Eskom should never have been allowed to defy the government for as long as it has. Furthermore, it was not indicated when these agreements will be signed, and that is critical. If the situation is not resolved within the next few weeks, DCD Wind Towers will be forced to close its doors, and 172 people will lose their jobs. The R400m facility in Port Elizabeth was built because the Department of Energy’s procurement programme guaranteed there would be demand for the wind towers going forward. To ensure a growing renewable ener...
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