NUM demands a lengthy delay in the implementation of just energy transition

Media Statement 02 October 2023

The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) calls for the delay in the implementation of just energy transition until such time that all stakeholders are convinced that such transition will be Fair and Just to workers and communities.

The NUM also demands that the unbundling processes of Eskom must also be put on hold pending proper consultation.

Delegates at the Just Energy Transition Summit held on the 19^th and 20^th of September 2023 at Emperors Place - Kempton Park came out with the declarations that the energy transition which is taking place must be put on hold until such time that we are all convinced that the transition process will be fair. The delegates further agreed that the unbundling of Eskom must also be put on hold.

Amongst the delegates who attended the summit were leaders from the Congress of South African Trade Unions, the South African Federation of Trade Unions and the National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa.

The NUM acknowledges that climate change is a serious threat, and it impact various aspects of our lives. We recognise that the phenomenal is no longer foreign to South Africans.

In 2022 South Africa experienced floods in the province of KwaZulu-Natal claimed a total of 461 lives. Just in the previous week the province of Western Cape experienced severe rains that resulted in localised floods.

As the NUM, we are also conceding that a transition and a move from high-emission energy to low-emission energy generation is needed. Yet, we demand that such a transition be Fair and Just to the working class and their immediate communities.

Delegates at the Just Energy Transition Summit observed and expressed that the current South African Just Energy Transition path is neither Fair nor Just.

The current energy transition seems to be pushing for equitable distribution in reducing carbon emissions, thus allowing the developed countries not to be held accountable for the significant and historic contribution of carbon emissions. Thus creating environmental injustice and inequity.

The rapid pace of the energy transition (based on the NDC such net Zero by 2030 and accelerated decommissioning of power stations again by 2030) will exacerbate SA developmental challenges such as unemployment, poverty and inequality.

The NUM is highly concerned that about 25 000 direct jobs and 26 000 indirect jobs will be lost as a result of the current speed applied in this energy transition process.

The delegates also expressed that the unbundling of Eskom and introduction of a competitive electricity market signifies privatisation of the State-Owned Enterprise.

There is a clear lack of consultation with organised labour regarding the unbundling of Eskom, the drafting of the JETIP as well as decommission of Komati power station.

In all of these processes a total of 90% of the funds come in forms of loans rather than investments. It is not free money. It has to be repaid in foreign currencies back by the South African government.

The decision to unbundle Eskom does not take into consideration Eskom’s core mandate of providing electricity in an efficient and sustainable manner to South African.

For more detailed information, please contact:

Mpho Phakedi, NUM Deputy General Secretary, 082 882 3452

Khangela Baloyi, NUM Energy Sector Coordinator, 072 450 6251

Livhuwani Mammburu, NUM National Spokesperson, 083 809 3257

Luphert Chilwane, NUM Media Officer, 083 809 3255

The National Union of Mineworkers
7 Rissik Street.
Cnr Frederick Johannesburg
Tel: 011 377 2111 Cell: 083 809 3257
Twitter: @Num_Media

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/NUM/10086002340216