Eskom CEO Brian Molefe says although this year’s summer is expected to be hotter than last year’s, the power utility plans to meet demand for electricity 100%.
He said on Monday the utility continue with its maintenance programme without load shedding.
Eskom traditionally conducts maintenance on its power stations during summer when demand is lower than the winter months. However, taking out several units for maintenance do raise the risk of power shortages.
Speaking at Eskom’s quarterly briefing on the state of the power system, Molefe said this year’s winter was relatively warmer than last year, allowing the utility to conduct some maintenance.
While the system is tight, we will continue with maintenance with no load shedding, he said.
Molefe said this year’s summer would be hotter than last year’s, prompting users to switch on air conditioners. “We plan to meet demand for electricity 100%,” Molefe said.
Molefe said the capacity outlook until August next year, when the next maintenance season will commence, was healthy. — Fin24
