Xstrata-Merafe Resources have called on Eskom to declare a "force majeure" on new projects recently announced.

Steve Phiri, Chief Executive Officer of Merafe Resources, said: "It's discouraging to read reports that certain projects have been approved by Eskom, and they will be going ahead.

"You take my ten per cent, and Jack's ten per cent, and John's ten per cent, but you're giving this guy electricity to establish a new plant. Where are you going to get electricity from - is it coming from our ten per cent?" Mr Phiri said.

Mines have been running at 90 per cent power since January after Eskom told them that it could not guarantee them full power.

According to Engineering News, Mr Phiri wants Eskom to say where the energy for new projects is coming from to ensure existing mines are not missing out.

Meanwhile, power rationing could be on the cards to minimise the impact on South African mines.

According to the Minerals and Energy department mining companies, the Government and Eskom met to discuss their options and power rationing was talked about.

Nelly Magubane, Department Deputy, said: "What we are looking at are various options... we are saying that one of the things that need to happen now is power rationing.

"We can't ration households yet due to the metering systems. We are looking at various classes of customers. Eventually households would be included," she added.

Source:

Ferrochrome producer calls on Eskom to declare force majeure on big projects, 03/03/08
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article.php?a_id=128334

Power rationing on the cards for SA, 04/03/08

http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article.php?a_id=128439

Ÿ Adfero Ltd