Despite Cutbacks By Mining Industry, Power Outages Are Likely During World Cup

The mining industry has been asked to limit its use of energy during the World Cup to stave off any possible power outages, which is expected to push metal prices up. But even with these efforts, energy officials say there's no guarantee that power supply will be able to match demand.

Eskom, the South African power utility, is under such strain that voluntary action may not be enough to prevent a crunch in supply.

South Africa generates between 36 gigawatts and 39 gigawatts of power, depending on availability. Demand during the World Cup is estimated to be 37.2 gigawatts, prompting fears that electricity supply to big industrial consumers could be rationed.

World Cup 2010 faces threat of blackouts and soaring metal prices
Times
March 20, 2010