Unions rally behind Eskom smelter tariff deal as lifeline for jobs and industrial revival

SOUTH Africa's two major trade unions in the metals and broader industrial sectors have thrown their weight behind Eskom’s 62c/kWh electricity tariff agreement with key smelting companies, describing it as a critical intervention to safeguard jobs, stabilise the sector and support long-term industrialisation.

- SIPHELELE DLUDLA

This comes as Eskom last week concluded a 62c/kWh electricity tariff for Samancor Chrome and Glencore-Merafe Chrome ferrochrome smelters after threats to the industry’s survival and jobs.

The power utility said the deal will provide it with predictable sales volumes for up to the next five years and protects public investments made in the utility, as well as its ability to support reindustrialisation and economic growth.

The National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (Numsa) and Solidarity over the weekend both welcomed the development, although from slightly different angles, with each emphasising the urgency of regulatory approval by the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (Nersa) to unlock its full benefits.