Eskom has confirmed an internal investigation into possible irregularities in its procurement of diesel fuel for the Ankerlig power station near Cape Town. The probe covers a five-year contract worth around R21 billion awarded to five suppliers in late 2024. Questions have been raised about prepayments, bidder qualifications and due diligence processes.
Eskom awarded the contract in December 2024 to African Forwarding and Shipping, Astron Energy, Lanele Resources, Nutinox and Severino Industries. The deal covers supply of up to one billion litres of diesel over five years for use at peaking power stations.
The utility has faced scrutiny over nearly R3 billion in prepayments made to some suppliers between February and July 2025. Eskom also accepted bids from companies facing separate corruption allegations linked to Transnet contracts.
Eskom stated that its Group Investigations and Security Department has completed most of the review. The final report is expected by 15 May 2026. Several suppliers have said they cooperated with investigators but have not seen the findings.