An announcement surrounding discussions about the effects of the power crisis in South Africa is likely to be made next week as talks between parties are "ongoing".

According to the Minister for Minerals and Energy, Buyelwa Sonjica, the talks are continuing and are thought to include a wide range of parties.

The National Union of Mineworkers, Solidarity, the United Association of South Africa, the Chamber of Mines and Eskom were all scheduled to attend the meeting, according to Sputnik Ratau, the Minister's spokesperson.

Meanwhile, Alstom has confirmed that it would use local business to install the 12 turbine islands it will build for Eskom at the new Medupit and Bravo power stations.

Over the next eight years, 50 per cent of the combined R29 billion contract would be sourced locally.

Philippe Joubert, President of Alstom, has been in South Africa as part of a business delegation touring with French President Nicolas Sarkozy.

Speaking to Engineering News Online, Managing Director of Alstom Africa Holdings, Mark Otto, claimed that most of the equipment for the new power stations could be sourced locally.

Consumers, including platinum mines, are only receiving 90 per cent of their usual supply and this is expected to continue until 2012.

Source:

Govt, industry, labour talks on power crisis 'ongoing', 28/02/08
http://www.miningweekly.co.za/article.php?a_id=128122

Alstom looks to place upwards of €1,4bn of SA power work with local industry, 28/02/08
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article.php?a_id=128045

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