South Africa: Eskom Restores Medupi Unit 4 Online; Adds 800MW As Part Of Strategic Plan To Deliver 2,500MW

South Africa’s power utility, Eskom, has announced the restoration of Unit 4 of the Medupi Power Station, eight months ahead of the original schedule. This adds 800MW to the national grid. The extensive repairs were made possible by the innovative use of a refurbished Generator Stator.

The unit had been out of service since August 8, 2021, after sustaining significant damage from a Generator Stator explosion, a key component in the operation of the generation unit.

With Unit 4’s return, all six units at Medupi are now operational and will contribute a combined capacity of 4,800MW to the national grid once the unit reaches full output in the coming weeks.

“The return of Medupi Unit 4 marks a major milestone in our strategic objective of achieving operational stability through the addition of 2,500MW to the grid,” said Eskom Group Chief Executive, Dan Marokane.

Eskom said it remains committed to its Operational Excellence Programme, focusing on restoring performance, strengthening oversight, and ensuring accountability from service providers.

“Today’s developments reflect the progress of our Generation Operational Recovery Plan, central to ensuring the long-term sustainability of the broader economy,” Marokane added.

Eskom commended the Medupi team, support staff, and execution partners for their dedication and professionalism.

The 400-tonne Generator Stator was transported approximately 1,000km by road from Richards Bay to the power station, a feat accomplished by Eskom Rotek Industries.

“We are confident that Unit 4 will deliver stable electricity to the national grid, enhancing South Africa’s energy security,” said Eskom Group Executive for Generation, Bheki Nxumalo.

Medupi Power Station, located in Lephalale, Limpopo province, is one of the world’s largest dry-cooled, coal-fired power plants. It features advanced supercritical technology, operating at higher temperatures to improve efficiency while reducing coal and water consumption.

The station is designed to recycle and reuse all water involved in power generation on-site and is equipped with low nitrogen oxide (NOₓ) burners to minimize NOₓ emissions.

Medupi is also designed to accommodate future installation of flue gas desulphurization technology, which will cut sulphur dioxide (SO₂) emissions by more than 90%.

Source: https://energynewsafrica.com