From Creamer Media in Johannesburg, this is the Real Economy Report. Our top stories this week:
We have a look at a breakthrough in environmentally friendly public transport;
We speak to Sasol about its power generation projects and aspirations;
And, the BG3 pipeline is expected to proceed.
Shannon de Ryhove:
The first local ethanol-driven bus, which consumes 80 l /100 km travelled and produces only 125 g of carbon dioxide for every kilometre, was tested during October. Petronel Smit reports...
Petronel Smit:
Bus manufacturer Scania, fleet management company Mix Telematics and Johannesburg's Metrobus company have been working closely to implement a reduction in carbon emissions in the city. Scania Sweden concept manager Stephan Claw explains the benefits of ethanol-driven buses, compared with diesel buses.
Scania Sweden concept manager Stephan Claw
Petronel Smit:
Mix Telematix's fleet management system further reduces the buses' carbon footprint with safe and correct use of the vehicle. MiX Telematics international key account manager Mike Baker explains how this works.
MiX Telematics international key account manager Mike Baker
Petronel Smit:
Metrobus uses ethanol-driven buses in Johannesburg in an aim to reduce pollution in the city. Metrobus technical general manager Dave Gregory believes that the ethanol fleet will impact significantly on the air quality of the city.
Metrobus technical general manager Dave Gregory
Shannon de Ryhove:
Sasol will be producing 800 MW of its own electric power at its giant Secunda facility by the middle of next year, of which 200 MW is set aside for purchase by State-owned utility Eskom. Sasol's Piet van Staden and Leon Smit tell us more.
Manager for Strategic Sourcing of Utility Energy Piet van Staden
Gas Turbines Commissioning Manager Leon Smit
Piet van Staden
Shannon de Ryhove:
Civil engineering construction company Esorfranki is constructing the BG3 pipeline, from the Vaal Dam to Zoekfontein control works, for Rand Water. However this project has faced several delays this year. Eleanor Seggie reports
Eleanor Seggie:
Just how important is the R240-million, 8,6 km BG3 pipeline, and what is the status of construction on the 18-month project? Esorfranki Pipelines MD Dave Gibbons explains.
Esorfranki Pipelines MD Dave Gibbons
Eleanor Seggie:
However, Gibbons expected the company to start laying pipes in late October this year.
Dave Gibbons
Shannon de Ryhove:
That's Creamer Media's Real Economy Report. Join us again next week for more news and insight into South Africa's real economy.
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