It is
vital to recognise that electricity/energy-based technology development and
innovation is imperative to Eskom’s and the country’s
productivity and success. The electricity industry is facing significant
challenges associated with the need for greater flexibility,
rapid technology advances across the entire value chain and changing business
models. Electricity and associated technology
development, innovation and leadership must play a profound role in assisting
South Africa to grasp the opportunities and manage
the threats in the immediate future.
Globally
electric utilities are facing challenges like no other time in their history,
and South Africa too is no different. Electric utilities are
dealing with declining sales and revenues, environmental concerns and rising
costs. Balancing social, environmental and economic imperatives
relies heavily on technology development and breakthrough to provide a way
forward when all other routes appear blocked.
The Eskom Research, Testing & Development (RT&D) business unit is
dedicated to finding technology solutions that can be applied primarily within the company
to ensure it fulfils its mandate to the nation.
Sumaya Nassiep: General Manager
(Acting) – Research, Testing and Development