Electricity + Control

The global energy challenge

As the world faces the most severe energy crisis since the 1970s, the World Economic Forum has released a special report on the state of the global energy transition, which indicates that urgent action is required by both private and public sectors to ensure a resilient transition to new energy sources. According to the report, Fostering Effective Energy Transition 2022, the urgency for countries to accelerate a holistic energy transition is reinforced by high fuel prices, commodities’ shortages, insufficient headway on achieving the climate goals and slow progress on energy justice and access.

World Coal Association welcomes new SA members

Following from discussions on energy and the just transition at the recent Mining Indaba in Cape Town, the World Coal Association (WCA) has welcomed two new members to the growing alliance of responsible coal participants. Members of the alliance are committed to building a clean coal future through abatement and sustainable development operating principles.

BESS for selected Eskom distribution sites

Engineering and professional services firm WSP has confirmed that in October 2021, it was appointed as the engineer for the Eskom Battery Energy Storage Solutions (BESS) project which includes a number of Eskom distribution sites in the Western Cape, Eastern Cape, Northern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal. WSP’s responsibilities include engineering, assistance in procurement, construction supervision, project management, and commissioning services for the project.

Eskom appoints acting Head of Generation

Eskom has announced, with regret, the resignation of Phillip Dukashe, Group Executive for Generation. Describing Mr Dukashe as a true, loyal asset to Eskom and the country, the utility said he will leave on 31 May 2022. In his resignation letter and discussions with Eskom executives, Dukashe cited the need to achieve a balance for the benefit of his health, family and work responsibilities.

A world first: Anglo American’s hydrogen-powered mine haul truck

Anglo American plc (Anglo American) on 6 May launched a prototype of the world’s first and largest hydrogen-powered mine haul truck designed to operate in everyday mining conditions at its Mogalakwena platinum group metals (PGMs) mine in South Africa.

New CEO for SAPVIA

Dr Rethabile Melamu takes the helm as the newly appointed CEO of the South African Photovoltaic Industry Association (SAPVIA), effective from May 2022, as the association looks to the next decade of solar energy development.