Eskom and National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) have sought to clear speculation surrounding the power utility’s use of diesel.
Firstly, Eskom says the use of Open-Cycle Gas Turbines (OCGTs) is closely monitored and strategic, aiming to dispel any misconceptions about the extent of their use.
It follows reports on claims by former CEO, Andre De Ruyter, that the recent relief in power cuts is due to excessive diesel burning, through the use of the OGCTs.
But Eskom has attributed the suspension of rolling blackouts to sufficient generation capacity stemming from a more reliable generation fleet. Eskom also says the reduction in unplanned outages by 4,400MW since April 26, 2024, is due to maintenance efforts and “the success of the Generation Operational Recovery Plan initiated in March 2023”.
“Eskom’s outlook for the winter period of 2024 states that it will continue to strategically utilise its peaking stations, including OCGTs. OCGTs are dispatched during morning and evening peaks to meet high electricity demand when it is necessary. Diesel spending on OCGTs shows a declining trend, with R53.9 million spent in the first nine days of May 2024.”
It has been 46 days since rolling power cuts were suspended.
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NERSA reacts
At the same time, the NERSA stated that it had never ‘called out Eskom’ regarding its diesel spending and usage, as some reports have suggested. Instead, it provided detailed responses to inquiries regarding Eskom’s diesel usage, emphasizing its oversight role in ensuring responsible resource allocation and utilisation.
Reports suggested that Eskom had used more than half of its quarterly budget for diesel in one month, a claim which NERSA has labelled as “factually and substantively incorrect”.
“NERSA remains committed to its regulatory principle of being transparent in its decision-making process, and assures all stakeholders and the public that its decisions are made in accordance with all applicable laws.”
