Eskom admits to challenges in meeting 2030 emissions targets

Eskom executive says utility’s power stations may struggle to meet emissions standards

- BANELE GININDZA

SOUTH Africa's power utility, Eskom, has openly acknowledged significant hurdles in achieving the ambitious decommissioning targets set for the Just Energy Transition (JET) by 2030.

During a presentation to Parliament on Wednesday, Eskom’s head of generation Bheki Nxumalo revealed that the utility’s existing power stations may struggle to meet the crucial emissions standards due to insufficient technology designed to curb nitrogen oxides (NOx) and sulphur oxides (SOx).

“The emissions standards post-2030 call for reduction much more aggressively. That's where the risks are because stations have different technologies. We are now on a drive for emissions abatement technologies post-2030 but its not all of them that will be ready, including Medupi,’ Nxumalo said in response to questions from MK Party MP, Brian Molefe.

“Kusile will meet most of the requirements but it is going to be an issue to comply with that. Most will but the “NOx and SOx” will require more in refurbishment”