Eskom to implement Stage 5 load shedding until further notice. Image: Pixabay
Ramokgopa is granted ‘authority’ over Eskom
President Cyril Ramaphosa has granted Electricity Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa authority over Eskom’s board and management.
Eskom to implement Stage 5 load shedding until further notice. Image: Pixabay
This authority was granted with the aim of addressing the longstanding issue of loadshedding in South Africa.
At the same time, Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan will supervise the restructuring of the nation’s power utility.
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This decision follows Ramokgopa’s appointment to the newly-created role almost a year ago, aimed at resolving persistent power outages that have hampered the country’s economy for over a decade, and reached unprecedented levels in 2023.
Initially, the specifics of Ramokgopa’s duties and authority over Eskom were rather unclear.
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The recently-approved memorandum of understanding establishes a collaborative approach between the ministers in executing their assigned powers and functions, according to a statement from the presidency on Friday (5 January).
Ramokgopa’s responsibilities encompass enhancing and procuring additional generation capacity and overseeing the implementation of the Eskom Generation Recovery Plan.
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His duties also extend to optimising the performance of the generation fleet, and collaborating with National Treasury and the presidency to develop financing models and options for the power transmission network.
Plans to sub-divide
As a state-owned entity, Eskom falls under Gordhan’s department. Plans are underway to divide it into separate transmission, generation, and distribution companies.
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The agreement aligns with the Eskom Memorandum of Incorporation, obliging the Minister of Public Enterprises to be informed of all critical decisions.
Gordhan’s role extends to ensuring the establishment and operationalisation of a national transmission company, and overseeing the implementation of the “just energy transition” strategy.
