Dames informed that the total investment would reach approximately R40 billion.
Dames, said: “While Eskom’s demand for coal in the past few years has been increasing by 5% per year, coal production in South Africa has remained constant. That is why it has become so difficult for Eskom to get coal cheaply. The demand is higher than the supply. “In the next 10 years, big investments would have to be done in coal mines. South Africa needs at least 40 new coal mines.”
Dames continued that the coal supply for South Africa in future would be from Waterberg in Limpopo. Presently there is not sufficient infrastructure to transport coal from the Waterberg to other provinces, he added.
There is a lack of natural water resources in Limpopo too, where in it would be difficult for Eskom to construct a power facility in Limpopo.
