By Johannah Malogadihlare
Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Department Minister Dion George has warned Eskom of not meeting minimum emission standards and delaying critical energy reform.
He said on Wednesday that the government would not grant it unchecked permission to pollute.
“Government cannot grant Eskom a blanket waiver to continue polluting without accountability,” George said in a statement.
The minister will announce his decision on Eskom’s application for exemptions from minimum emission standards on Monday.
George highlighted that the complexity of the issue would require balancing South Africa’s energy needs to drive economic growth with the constitutional right to a healthy environment.
“South Africa cannot remain trapped in a persistent cycle of energy insecurity and environmental degradation that harms public health. South Africans have had to endure rolling blackouts, rising cost, and economic stagnation as a result of Eskom’s inefficiencies,” George said.
He also said Eskom’s monopoly over electricity generation and transmission had stifled competition, which had slowed the adoption of renewable energy and left South Africa exposed to energy insecurity.
“The only viable path forward is to unbundle Eskom without further delay,” George said in a statement.
He said the transition to renewable energy was non-negotiable.
“South Africa’s economic future depends on more renewable energy entering the grid, not less. The world is moving toward cleaner energy, and South Africa cannot afford to be left behind,” the minister said.
He also said the utility must decommission its failing power stations responsibly, warning that it must comply with emissions regulations and accelerate its transition to avoid the consequences.
“Those that fail to meet environmental standards and contribute disproportionately to pollution must be retired in a structured and responsible manner, without leaving anyone behind.
“South Africa cannot remain hostage to outdated infrastructure and poor governance at the expense of its future,” George said.
“We are committed to ensuring that South Africa has a future-proof energy sector. The time for endless delays and excuses is over.”
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