Question NW3309 to the Minister of Public Enterprises
23 November 2023 - NW3309
Graham, Ms SJ to ask the Minister of Public Enterprises
In light of the alleged conflicting views between Members of the Executive, what are the details of the position of the Government on the decommissioning of the ageing coal-fired power stations by Eskom, in favour of incorporating more renewable energy sources in order to claim additional benefits and international funding in the Republic’s Just Energy Transition?
Reply:
The decommissioning of power stations is informed by the age of power stations which have a lifespan of 50 years. In addition, the IRP outlines the decommissioning dates of power stations. The repurposing of the power stations was driven by the fact that, power stations to be decommissioned can be repurposed to integrate renewable energy given that infrastructure is already in place. However, the energy crisis necessitated the review of the decommissioning of the power plants. The review is to enable a just energy transition wherein the power plants will be decommissioned and repurposed once new capacity has been added to the grid. The delays in the decommissioning of the power plants is part of the measures to minimise the impact of the power crisis.
Eskom is expanding the grid to enable connection of renewable capacity that has been approved under respective bid windows in the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Programme (REIPPP).
Since the outbreak of various conflicts in the North, many countries have indicated that (as SA has) their commitment to the NDC stands. However, each country’s domestic circumstances will dictate the path to decarbonization. This remains SA’s position.
The issue of funding for developing countries transitions, access to renewable technology, and the concrete plans to ensure the transition is/must still require further efforts.
Remarks: Approved / Not Approved
Jacky Molisane PJ Gordhan, MP
Acting Director-General Minister
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