Question NW767 to the Minister of Public Enterprises
24 April 2024 - NW767
Gondwe, Dr M to ask the Minister of Public Enterprises
With reference to the VGBe consortium Report that was commissioned by the National Treasury and delivered to him in September 2023, what were the reasons that he kept the report out of the public domain until 1 March 2024; (2) (a) which recommendations has Eskom and/or his department implemented since the finalisation of the Report in September 2023 and (b) on what date will Eskom and/or his implement all the recommendations contained in the Report. (3) Whether, in light of the findings and recommendations of the Report, his department will review its Energy Action Plan; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
According to the information received from Eskom:
(1)
The study that was conducted by the VGBe consortium on Eskom operations was commissioned by the National Treasury as part of Eskom’s equity conditions. The Department of Public Enterprises is not the custodian of the VGBe report. Therefore, the National Treasury as the custodian of the VGBe report is in a better position to share it with stakeholders.
(2)(a)(b)
The report covers an assessment period from March to May 2023, coinciding with the inception of the Generation Operational Recovery Plan that was approved by the Eskom Board. During this time, significant developments occurred, including the appointment of Bheki Nxumalo as the Generation Group Executive in mid-April 2023. The Generation Operational Recovery Plan addressed various operational observations at power stations. These initiatives focus on improving people, plant, and process performance. Most of the appropriate recommendations are already covered as part of Generation recovery process which are beginning to show positive results.
Furthermore, as of January 2024, a total of 3 510MW was recovered through concerted efforts focusing on priority power stations. Each power station has its own detailed recovery plan, and these are centrally monitored to ensure successful implementation of the actions.
The new Group Chief Executive, Dan Marokane has assessed the Generation Operation Recovery Plan for adequacy in addressing all external reports, including the Ministerial Task Team report and VGBe Report.
(3)
The Energy Action Plan will be reviewed, if necessary, by the Presidency and the National Energy Crisis Committee.
Remarks: Approved / Not Approved
Ms Jacky Molisane PJ Gordhan, MP
Acting Director-General Minister
Date: Date: