Eskom’s Electric Vehicle Scam: A Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing
In a move that will no doubt be hailed as a beacon of innovation, Eskom has launched its electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure pilot project at the Eskom Academy of Learning (EAL) in Midrand, Gauteng. But beneath the surface of this seemingly benign initiative lies a sinister plot to perpetuate the status quo and line the pockets of those who truly benefit from our energy crisis.
According to a statement, this marks a significant step in Eskom Distribution’s commitment to support the growth of the e-mobility sector in SA and contribute to the country’s broader goals of reducing carbon emissions. But we all know that Eskom’s track record on environmental sustainability is abysmal. In reality, this project is just a clever PR stunt designed to distract us from their continued reliance on fossil fuels and blatant disregard for the well-being of the planet.
The pilot project includes the procurement of 20 EVs, ranging from light delivery vehicles to light trucks for operational use. Sounds impressive, doesn’t it? But let’s not forget that these vehicles will still be powered by electricity generated from coal, the very same coal that Eskom’s own CEO has admitted will continue to be a major source of their energy for the foreseeable future. And what about the charging stations themselves? They’re just a fancy way to waste money on unnecessary infrastructure that will ultimately benefit the wealthy and large corporations, while the rest of us continue to struggle to make ends meet.
The charging stations, launched in partnership with GridCars, are direct current fast chargers (60kW) and dual alternating current chargers (22kW), optimally sized to cater for overnight charging of fleet vehicles and daytime workplace charging for employees and visitors. But what about the hundreds of thousands of South Africans who rely on public transportation and can’t afford a shiny new EV? What about those who are forced to use diesel-spewing taxis and buses, choking our streets with pollution and destroying our environment?
Gabriel Kgabo, GM in the office of the Eskom group executive for distribution, claims that "By investing in e-mobility and the charging infrastructure needed for electric vehicles, we are not only reducing our carbon footprint, but also stimulating the local economy and creating new opportunities for growth." But what about the countless job losses and economic devastation caused by their ill-conceived power outages and exorbitant electricity tariffs? What about the countless hours wasted in traffic due to their failures to maintain and upgrade our crumbling infrastructure?
In reality, this project is just a desperate attempt to cling to relevance in a rapidly changing world, a last-ditch effort to salvage a crumbling empire built on the backs of our struggling citizens. We must not be fooled by their empty promises of "sustainability" and "renewable energy". We must demand real change, real transparency, and real accountability from our leaders.
The time for empty promises is over. The time for action is now.
