Eskom denies delaying Mmamabula project

South African power utility Eskom has strongly denied suggestions circulating in the industry that it was culpable in delaying the development of the Mmamabula coal-mine and energy project proposed for development in neighbouring Botswana, which is also poised to become arguably the largest independent power producer (IPP) supplying into the power-hungry South African grid.

The project, which could involve a 7.5-million-ton-a-year to 9-million-ton-a-year coal mine, as well as the 2 100-MW to 2 460-MW power plant, was being pursued by CIC Energy, which is listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange.

Eskom Enterprises MD Brian Dames said he had been given a board mandate to support the IPP project, as well as conclude a mutually beneficial power purchase agreement (PPA) with CIC.

Editor's Comment
Micro-procurement maze demands urgent reform

Whilst celebrating milestones in inclusivity, with notably P5 billion awarded to vulnerable groups, the report sounds a 'siren' on a dangerous and growing trend: the ballooning use of micro-procurement. That this method, designed for small-scale, efficient purchases, now accounts for a staggering 25% (P8 billion) of total procurement value is not a sign of agility, but a 'red flag'. The PPRA’s warning is unequivocal and must be...

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