ESKOM is considering the possibility of taking equity positions in foreign power transmission in an effort to bridge the growing prospect of a supply deficit in South Africa. Direct equity investments, which would be through a newly formed department within Eskom called Southern Africa Energy, would replace less effective power purchase agreements.

Mr Mark Sims manager of Eskom's International Trader Department, said the concept was that by taking equity stakes in foreign power providers, Eskom would have more say in decisions around regional power transmission. He said that "We're looking at this for the first time, but the strategy is not yet set in stone.”

He added that "This is a plan to participate in transmission rather than power stations. We don't have specifics and it's so new that it is going to the board in the next week.”

(Sourced from miningmx)