While original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) are considered indispensable for the proper long-term upkeep of Eskom plants, they have been sidelined by the utility in some cases, as it seeks out quicker and cheaper options, those in the industry say.
OEMs design, manufacture and supply specialised equipment and components, while also offering the service of maintenance to guarantee their operational capability.
While Eskom recognises the important role OEMs play, and in fact, wants to use them more, it says cost-effective arrangements are critical.