The Energy Intensive Users Group (EIUG) says that the task of mitigating risks related to the system performance and defining future electricity supply is too complex to be resolved by power utility Eskom alone, but instead requires active participation by other stakeholders as well.
EIUG CEO Fanele Mondi notes that the latest Eskom system status briefing (its winter plan) and poor performance during May are evidence of increased levels of system strain, characterised by growing unplanned generation outages and a shortage of generation capacity to perform maintenance and meet demand.
The EIUG believes that the current focus should be on fundamental issues, such as creating time for Eskom to undertake maintenance, professionalising procurement processes and obtaining funds for maintenance, executing effective maintenance and managing the demand side.
The group says focus should also be on adding generation capacity through the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme, distributed generation projects and further structural reforms.
The EIUG shared its concerns and possible solutions with Eskom, saying both parties agreed that various stakeholders, the private sector, government and the regulator, can offer numerous mitigating options, starting with demand-side and supply-side solutions and energy storage.