Ramokgopa's optimistic SA's economy will grow if load shedding is fully resolved
The electricity minister provided an update on the progress of the Energy Action Plan in the Free State on Monday.
Electricity Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa visiting Medupi Power Station. Picture: GCIS
JOHANNESBURG - Electricity Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa said that the economy is projected to grow by nearly four percent if load shedding is fully resolved.
During a media briefing in the Free State on Monday, Ramokgopa provided an update on the progress of the Energy Action Plan.
As the country celebrates 200 days without load shedding, the Electricity Ministry aims to sustain power generation.
Ramokgopa said that resolving power cuts would significantly benefit the economy.
READ: 200 days without load shedding a ‘significant milestone to ensure energy security’ - Eskom
"The South African economy could grow by about 3,5% in the next 19 to 24 months. So that’s a major victory for where we are. Of course, National Treasury is putting it at 0.9% conservatively...when the Minister of Finance delivers the Medium-Term Budget Policy statement, he will state with a great deal of authority how the National Treasury sees it," said Ramokgopa.
He said South Africans are also impressed with Eskom.
"It's also having a positive impact on what I call the happiness index. I think people are in a better space now. You wake with the lights on. There is a new phenomenon we are dealing with called load reduction. This has little to do with the challenges of generation capacity, so we are generating more than enough to meet the demand. These are downstream challenges we are faced with, both on the Eskom side and on the side of municipalities," he said.
Minister lauds Eskom leadership
Ramokgopa attributed Eskom's effective operation to dedicated and stable leadership.
Dan Marokane, who was appointed CEO in March, is said to have brought valuable experience and expertise to the power utility.
Ramokgopa said there has also been stability in Eskom's board, which has contributed immensely to the effective implementation of the energy action plan.
"We are beginning to see the kind of results we want to see. Not just in terms of the megawatts but just the mood inside Eskom...very buoyant and positive and people are committed to being part of the brand. They wear the badge with pride," he said.
Ramokgopa said while load shedding is not entirely a thing of the past, many are beginning to feel hopeful for the first time in several years.