A delegation from the Middelburg Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI) attended the introduction of new Eskom CEO Dan Marokane on Tuesday 16 April 2024. The MCCI delegation consisted of Moeketsi Mpotu (President), Johan Strydom (Past President), Adv. Mtho Xulu (Past President and President of the South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry) and Anna-Marth Ott (CEO-MCCI).

Eskom said that several key assumptions of the strategy have not materialised as expected and that a tactical adjustment to the strategy is required. The key areas of focus are ending load shedding, finalising the legal separation of the units and revising the business models for generation and distribution. Grid access will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. The Just Energy Transition remains an integral part of the strategic direction and the generation business. The restructuring plan is linked to the continued operation of five coal-fired power plants until 2030. Although they have only reached 65% of the target for restoring power generation, they are making good progress.

The economic impact and the role the power plants play in our country’s economy cannot be dismissed as insignificant. The ongoing operating costs of Arnot are lower and those of Hendrina are comparable to those of alternative energies. The negative economic impact of the closure of Grootvlei and Hendrina on the economy will amount to R6.4 billion per year and 12 600 direct and indirect job losses.

There seems to be no end to municipalities defaulting on their payment obligations to Eskom. 123 out of 257 municipalities have debts totalling R71 billion, and this financial year alone they have increased by R16 billion. As a municipality that has always honoured its payment obligations, this is unacceptable to the MCCI business community.

MCCI holds Eskom accountable for reliable electricity supply to its members. Our doors are always open to strengthen and expand our relationship to ensure sustainable economic growth.