Eskom warns of power cuts after govt rejects emission applications
Eskom says government's refusal to allow it to postpone its compliance with air quality regulations could lead to power cuts.
The power utility's coal and liquid-fuel fired power stations need to meet minimum emission standards under the Air Quality Act.
The Department of Environmental Affairs has rejected Eskom's applications to delay its emissions obligations at the Matla, Duvha, Matimba, Medupi and Lethabo power stations.
Postponements were granted for seven other coal-fired plants.
But Eskom says these are scheduled to be shut down over the next couple of years.
Eskom spokesperson Sikhonathi Mantshantsha says they believe the department's decisions will affect the country negatively.
"The decision will result in an immediate shutting down of 16 000MW of installed coal-fired capacity.
"This would have a significant negative impact on the economy and employment, particularly in Mpumalanga and Lephalale, and delay the country's plans for a just energy transition toward a cleaner electricity supply.”
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