INSIGHT
INSIGHT
emissions. “We are not denying the climate change effect of coal, but you cannot
just shut down the mines and Eskom power stations. You can make it cleaner.”
Furthermore, he pointed out that Eskom is reliant on coal as a baseload and
therefore, it is crucial that coal mines continue to supply the power utility with
good quality, cost-effective coal and not to make huge profits at the utility’s
expense.
“If you are selling coal to Eskom at a high price and you are proud of it, then
there is something wrong with you,” he said, referring to the importance of
Eskom in the South African economy.
He said coal was important for job creation. “More than 700 000 South Africans
are directly and indirectly employed by the coal mining industry. Who will
provide these 700 000 people with jobs if the coal sector collapses? We need to
support the livelihoods and stability of South Africa by securing the future of this
vitally important sector,” Bayoglu stated.
"If you are selling coal
to Eskom at a high price
and you are proud of it, then
there is something wrong
with you
www. africanmining.co.za
African Mining Publication
January African
2020 Mining
59
African Mining January 2020
59