Anglo Platinum's plans to expand its platinum mining operations are being put in jeopardy by power shortages in South Africa, it has been revealed.

Simon Tebele, Spokesperson for Anglo Platinum, said that the miner is likely to have to increase its energy production to 1,500 MW by 2013 and to 2,000 MW by 2017.

However, with Eskom predicting that the shortages could last up to five years, the proposed expansion, which had been due to be completed by 2010, is being threatened, Business Daily reports.

Mr Tebele, however, said that Anglo Platinum remains hopeful that energy-efficient processes and a cut in power consumption might yet make up the anticipated shortfall in energy.

News of Mr Tebele's remarks comes as Chamber of Mines Assistant Adviser Dick Kruger last week said that the shortages made it likely that final decisions on new mining ventures would be delayed until the Medupi coal-fired plant comes on stream in 2013 to provide a reliable supply.

He said: "We are in for a very hard five years."

Source:

Power crisis jeopardises Angloplat plans, 20/01/08
http://www.busrep.co.za/index.php?fArticleId=4212143

Platinum mines put on hold due to SA power shortage - 18/01/08
http://platinum.matthey.com/media_room/1200668411.html

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