Construction activities at the Avon Peaking power plant in South Africa are set to resume after an agreement between KwaDukuza Municipality and diversified construction firm Group Five.
Avon Peaking power plant in South Africa is a multi-billion Rand power plant and largest power project in the country with a combined capacity of 1,005MW.
Construction work at the Avon Peaking power plant in South Africa was halted six weeks ago after workers downed their tools. The workers went on an unprotected strike following a dispute with their employer Group Five who changed their employment terms.
KwaDukuza Mayor Ricardo Mthembu and Group Five Executive Director announced last week that work would resume at the site and the workers dismissed during the dispute would be reinstated and complete their contract.
Mayor Mthembu said the agreement was reached following a thorough consultation process that could yield positive results for the local council, community and Group Five.
He said that the council is happy that the project is back on track and reiterated that they aim at creating more jobs and also make the environment friendly for investors.
“Due to the demand of power, this is an important project for this country and the international community. It is our duty therefore to protect private companies who make available these job prospects.
The Mayor lauded all those who took part in the peace deal to champion for the interests of the workers. He particularly commended Group Five for their commitment in resolving the matter.
“We will ensure that we honor our commitment to ensuring that the project is stable and no one must destroy this marriage,” he added.
Group Five Executive Director Willie Zeelie confirmed that with the assistance of ward councilors, the reinstatement process is on and that people on site are working and are a happy lot.
“We deliberated on finding a long-term solution. We had practical discussions with KwaDukuza Mayor and the councilors and were able to come to an agreement,” Zeelie said.
Zeelie said that due to the delays, the site team will be working under pressure to ensure that the project is completed on time.
On completion, the Avon Peaking power plant will feed to the national grid electricity using gas turbines and water.
