Eskom has kept the lights on for over six months now, but they are using emergency diesel more than usual.
The power utility is consuming huge quantities of diesel to prevent blackouts because some power plants are delayed in restarting, and cold weather is causing increased electricity usage.
These generators are meant for times when electricity demand is high.
Last month, Eskom used more diesel than in September last year.
However, from April to September, they’ve spent much less on diesel than before – only about a third of what they used to spend.
“Additionally, higher-than-expected electricity demand driven by cold weather has contributed to this situation,” Eskom said.
Even with these challenges, Eskom says they still hope to avoid power cuts until March.
In August, Eskom announced the arrest of four employees and a contractor security guard in connection with the theft of heavy fuel oil valued at R500,000 from Camden Power Station.
In July Eskom announced that three Eskom contractor employees were arrested for the theft of diesel. The Eskom excavator operator and the two mechanics had drained diesel from an excavator.
The suspects tried to offer the supervisor a bribe of R5,000 but he refused it and reported the crime.
Compiled by Staff Writer
Pictured above: Eskom.
Source: File
This article has been updated.
