4. SITE VISIT TO ESKOM'S KENDAL POWER STATION

The Portfolio Committee drove from Sasol's Secunda Plant to Eskom's Kendal Power Station where they linked up with the Chief Director for Air Quality Management, Dr Mdluli. The Safety Manager took the Committee through "evacuation procedure and safety induction" before Mr Christo van Niekerk (SGM Coal) rose to make some welcoming remarks, followed by Mr Christopher Nani (Power Station Manager), who gave an overview of the Kendal Power Station. Members of the Portfolio Committee and staff were issued with personal protective equipment, in preparation for the tour of the Power Plant. They were divided into small groups of seven to nine persons and went on a guided tour of the facility. They asked questions for clarity in their small groups and were shown the scenarios under which load shedding takes place. The tour ended and everyone returned to the boardroom where the Committee was received, and lunch was served.

Hon Mr Mabilo made some concluding remarks, underscoring the significant role that Eskom plays in the economy and the lives of all South Africans, considering the critical role of energy. He encouraged Eskom to consider environmental sustainability (by adhering to emission standards) in its quest to provide sustainable energy for socio-economic development of the nation. He further echoed the sentiments expressed by representatives of local communities in the meeting at the Department's offices that stepping up activities to put renewable energy on the grid should be prioritized, taking into account South Africa's huge potential, in this respect.