Eskom to procure 1000MW additional capacity to ease load shedding
Eskom has launched a
three-part programme to urgently procure additional generation capacity from
independent power producers.
The embattled power utility has launched the three programmes as part of measures to address the loadshedding crisis.
The utility implemented varying stages of loadshedding throughout the weekend after five units tripped at Kusile, Arnot, Camden, as well as two units at Duvha Power Station - causing a loss of 2 400MW.
Eskom spokesperson Sikonathi Mantshantsha says initially, the programmes will focus on generators capable of supplying more than one megawatt to the grid.
"Over time the threshold will be lowered to enable smaller producers to participate. The combined impact of the programmes, predicted to exceed 1 000MW, will make an important contribution towards reducing the loadshedding burden on consumers.”
He says the utility aims to sign the first power supply agreement before the end of the current week, and for the power to start flowing through the grid as soon as possible.
The programmes include the standard offer programme, to procure power from companies who have existing generation capacity for a period of three years, the emergency generator programme, to procure more expensive power during periods when the grid is significantly constrained and the bilateral power import programme to secure imports of from neighbouring countries.
READ: Eskom to reduce load shedding to stage 5 at midnight
"The emergency generator programme allows for independent generators to provide energy daily to compete with the Eskom generators in the internal market. The independent generators will supply into the grid based on the offer price and availability provided," says Mantshantsha.
Mantshantsha says several countries have expressed an interest in selling additional surplus power to South Africa.
"Eskom is already importing electricity from some of its neighbours via the Southern African Power Pool, an average 200MW that is being used to augment Eskom generation capacity when the grid is constrained."
