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On Thursday, it cost R20.25 million to prevent cargo shedding for the memorial service of Zulu King Goodwill Zwelithini.
Eskom spokesman Sikonathi Mantshantsha told TimesLIVE that the power company used nine open cycle gas turbines (OCGT) to keep the lights on, at a huge financial cost.
“To keep the lights on during these four hours, Eskom has had to supplement the supply by burning more diesel than necessary.
“BBetween 9.45 am and 2.15 pm, to supplement the supply, Eskom executed five of its own OCGT and four IPP [independent power producers] OCGT. Average cost per OCGT is R500,000 per hour. Each OCGT produces 150MW of power, ”he said.
According to these figures, it cost R2.25 million per OCGT for the four and a half hours. For nine OCGT, this means R20.25m was spent.
This came after the power company said Wednesday night that load shedding would be suspended between 10 a.m.
“This extraordinary measure has been implemented to allow the nation to witness a landmark and landmark event at this difficult time in the life of the Zulu nation. Subsequently, load shedding will be implemented and will continue as previously communicated, ”said Eskom.
Mantshantsha said Eskom operates 20 OCGT and also relies on IPP OCGT to supplement any shortages. He said these could be executed as needed.
TimesLIVE
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