CTF takes Eskom to court
THE COAL Transporters’ Forum (CTF) has approached the high court seeking an interdict to bar Eskom from entering into contracts with renewable energy independent power producers (IPPs), as envisaged by the government.
At a media briefing in Pretoria yesterday, CTF spokesperson Mary Phadi however, refused to give details of the court processes, insisting the matter was sub judice.
“We have sought legal advice as a preventative measure to avoid surprises. While we are in the process of engaging, on the other hand Eskom is signing these IPPs.
“We therefore filed with the high court against Eskom, (the) departments of public enterprises, energy and the national Treasury, seeking a review of implementation of these IPPs,” said Phadi.
“Due to the matter being sub judice, we cannot elaborate further on the court application or action,” she added.
Earlier this month, hundreds of haulage truck drivers brought traffic in and around Pretoria to a standstill as they demonstrated against Eskom’s plans to partner with IPPs.
The protest was organised by CTF.
Job losses
The forum argues that the switch to renewable energy will drastically effect jobs in the vast sectors linked to coal mining and the transportation sector.
“The introduction of the IPPs seems to be contradicting the government’s transformation objectives, as the IPPs being introduced are not even transforming.
“And the funding that is setting up these entities is sourced locally to fund foreign companies.
“CTF was not consulted on the programme, we only heard the news on TV in the State of the Nation Address,” Phadi pointed out.
“The introduction of IPPs will also disrupt the entire value chain of the people working at the mines. How does the government invest R200 billion into foreign-owned companies at the expense of South Africans?” Phadi asked.
Following their Pretoria protest, the coal transporters have received feedback from the Presidency directing the CTF to liaise with an official at the Department of Energy.
CTF deputy chairperson Josiah Mlangeni said it must be noted that his organisation was not against renewable energy but was opposed to massive job losses. – ANA