As part of its efforts to solve the country’s power output gap and reduce load shedding, Eskom has initiated three programmes to increase the grid’s electricity supply.
In response to the load-shedding problem of the previous three months, the utility was given permission to procure at least 1,000 MW of electricity to add to the system.
“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 aim is to sign the first power supply agreement during the course of the current week, and for the power to start flowing through the grid as soon as possible,” Eskom said.
Standard Offer Programme, Emergency Generator Programme, and Bilateral Power Import Programme are the three programmes.
“The Standard Offer approach allows Eskom to purchase electricity at an established price, calculated at the avoided cost of own generation, including long-term energy purchases from Independent Power Producers.
“The Emergency Generator Programme [is] to procure more expensive power during periods when the grid is significantly constrained. The programme allows for independent generators to provide energy daily to compete with Eskom generators in the internal market.
“The Bilateral Power Import Programme [is] to secure imports of power to the country from neighbouring countries. Several countries have expressed an interest in selling additional surplus power to South Africa. The programme will provide a mechanism to access such opportunities,” Eskom said.
Meanwhile, load shedding has been reduced to Stage 5 as a result of the restoration of at least four power units to service.
“A unit each at Camden, Kriel, Kusile and Kendal [power stations] were returned but unfortunately [we] had to take off a unit at Duvha, which developed a boiler tube leak. Planned outages are at 5 411MW and breakdowns currently amount to 16 326MW,” Eskom said.