A combined, discipline-based group of engineering representatives, under the auspices of the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA), met with the Minister of Public Enterprises, Mr Pravin Gordhan, to discuss solutions to the country’s electricity power supply constraints. The engagement, held on the Friday preceding this 17 February 2019 statement, focused on the strained supply challenges at Eskom.

Purpose of the engagement

The meeting addressed operational challenges, engineering, technical capacity and capability, restructuring and the financial viability faced by the utility. It also reiterated the engineering fraternity’s commitment to being part of a lasting solution to the power generation constraints that forced Eskom to implement loadshedding. The engineering bodies noted that they have been instrumental in the design, engineering and building of the South African electricity supply and infrastructure over the years.

A framework to assist Eskom

Following the engagement, the engineering community was asked to propose a framework for working together with Eskom and the ministry to find solutions in the operational, logistical, systems, maintenance and capital project areas of the challenge. The professional engineering bodies also expressed their willingness to work with local and external experts to tackle the extensive challenges faced.

The Minister, in consultation with ECSA, tasked the CEO of the South African Institute of Electrical Engineers (SAIEE), Mr Sicelo Xulu, to present an analysis of the challenges facing Eskom and to propose how the South African engineering fraternity could assist Eskom and the Minister to develop a coherent plan to achieve operational stability, effective and suitable maintenance, and system resilience in the electricity network.

Original Press Release

About ECSA

The Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) is the statutory body established under the Engineering Profession Act, 46 of 2000, mandated to regulate the engineering profession in South Africa. ECSA is responsible for the accreditation of engineering programmes, the registration of engineering practitioners, and upholding professional and ethical standards across the profession.

Issued by the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA).

ECSA Media Contact

Sybil Dlamini, Manager: Marketing and Communication
Email: sybil@ecsa.co.za | Tel: 073 623 8275
Website: www.ecsa.co.za

This article is based on an official ECSA press release. Read the original statement.