The Glencore Merafe Chrome Venture has confirmed that it has submitted a “final counterproposal” to Eskom in relation to the terms and conditions associated with the electricity utility’s 62c/kWh tariff offer, describing Eskom’s current conditions as “commercially unworkable”. Glencore Merafe confirmed the counter proposal in response to a statement by the National Union of Metal Workers of South Africa (Numsa), in which it denounced both Glencore Merafe and Samancor Chrome for pressing ahead with Section 189 retrenchment processes despite Eskom’s offer, which was made on February 27.
Eskom Holdings said it has been ordered by the Supreme Court of Appeal to disclose details of its coal, transport and diesel procurement contracts to activist group Afriforum. South Africa’s state power utility said in a statement late Tuesday it will take legal advice before taking any action.
Electricity and Energy Minister Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa says a revised electricity pricing policy will be released for public comment in the coming few weeks. Delivering a statement to the National Assembly in relation to the steps being taken to eradicate ongoing load reduction, whereby electricity is regularly cut to areas where the network is being overloaded, the Minister acknowledged that the affordability of electricity had become a major concern for many South Africans.