System Operator

In terms of the Transmission License and the South African Grid Code, the System Operator is responsible for the security of the South African national electricity grid by monitoring, controlling and operating it in a safe, economical and reliable manner. By doing so, the System Operator ensures Quality of Supply to all Eskom customers.

The Main Responsibilities and Activities of the System Operator are:

To control, operate and be responsible for the short-term reliability of the interconnected power system (IPS) as defined in the South African Grid code (SAGC) and also to administer the application of Grid Code by IPS users as per requirements of NERSA
Scheduling and Dispatching generation and other demand-side resources to meet supply and demand in real-time.
Ensure reliability, safety and security of the interconnected power system (IPS) in the delivery of power from generators to distributors by:

Coordination and sanctioning of all outages of the Transmission and Generation equipment
Setting equipment protection settings and operational limits
Monitoring and operating the interconnected power system
Acquiring ancillary services to ensure reliable continuity of supply

NERSA Metering data collection
Development of the SA Grid Code, available from the NERSA Website, and monitoring compliance thereto
Providing operational information to key stakeholders
Ensuring there is adequate reserves for credible contingencies
Provision of real time information on status of the power system.

Generation output is changed every 4 seconds to match customer demand. When there is insufficient generation available, customer demand is reduced to ensure system stability is maintained.

System Operator Facilitates Power Trading in the SADC Region Through The South African Power Pool (SAPP)

SADC Region

Uganda

NTCSA operates concessions on two hydro power stations

Zambia

NTCSA supplies non-firm power

Mozambique

Cohara Bassa: NTCSA purchases 1150MW
Motraco: Eskom owns one-third of Motraco transmission company and sells 950MW
EDM: NTCSA wheels 300MW to EDM from Cahora Bassa

Zimbabwe

NTCSA supplies non-firm power

Namibia

NTCSA supplies firm and non-firm power
Power supplied directly to two mining companies in Namibia

Botswana

NTCSA supplies firm and non-firm power

Swaziland

NTCSA supplies firm power

Lesotho

NTCSA exports firm power and imports non-firm power