Parliament, Sunday, 15 June 2025 – The Portfolio Committee on Electricity and Energy received a briefing this week from the National Transmission Company South Africa (NTCSA) regarding the Transmission Development Plan and the System Market Operator, including the Market Code.

The briefing focussed on the relationship between Eskom and NTCSA in light of NTCSA’s status as a subsidiary of Eskom. The committee expressed concerns about the potential of overlapping responsibilities and also sought clarity on governance structures as the restructuring process unfolds.

On a question from the committee on NTCSA’s operational independence from Eskom while maintaining accountability for service delivery, NTCSA assured the committee that robust governance frameworks would be established to delineate responsibilities clearly and prevent any conflicts of interest. The entity stressed that it is committed to transparency and will operate with a distinct mandate to facilitate efficient electricity transmission.

Members of the committee wanted to know more about measures put in place to ensure that the transition from Eskom to NTCSA does not disrupt electricity supply. The committee heard that a comprehensive transition plan has been designed to maintain continuity of service during the restructuring phase. NTCSA highlighted ongoing engagement with stakeholders to identify potential challenges and implement preventative measures.

The committee also sought clarification on the financial implications of this transition, with the committee asking, how will the revenue model be structured to ensure sustainability for both Eskom and NTCSA? In their response, NTCSA indicated that a thorough analysis of the revenue streams is underway, and that both entities will work collaboratively to ensure that financial resources are allocated effectively to support operational needs while minimising the burden on consumers.

Concerns were raised regarding the integration of independent power producers (IPPs), with members questioning the strategies that are in place to facilitate the seamless incorporation of IPPs into the national grid. NTCSA noted that it is actively developing partnerships with IPPs and are in discussions to create a transparent framework that will enable efficient energy trading and enhance the overall stability of the electricity supply.

In ensuring its mandate of providing oversight, the committee will continuously engage with NTCSA and other stakeholders to address outstanding issues and promote transparency and efficiency in the electricity sector.

ISSUED BY THE PARLIAMENTARY COMMUNICATION SERVICES ON BEHALF OF THE CHAIRPERSON OF THE PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE ON ELECTRICITY AND ENERGY, MS NONKOSI MVANA.

For media inquiries or interviews with the Chairperson, please contact the committee’s Media Officer:
Name: Yoliswa Landu (Ms)
Cell: 081 497 4694
E-mail: ylandu@parliament.gov.za