Transnet Takes Delivery of RBCT-Procured Locomotive Batteries

The mutual cooperation agreement between Transnet SOC Ltd. (“Transnet”) and Richards Bay Coal Terminal (RBCT) is paying off, with Transnet Freight Rail (TFR) taking delivery of seven full sets of batteries procured by RBCT this past weekend.

The delivery of the critical spares will improve the reliability of the available locomotive fleet.

Procurement of locomotive spares – batteries and compressors – is one of the joint initiatives Transnet and RBCT embarked on following the conclusion of the agreement. In this regard, orders were placed for 50 compressors and 1 800 batteries (100 full sets of batteries). The first seven sets of batteries were delivered this past weekend. The full 100 sets of batteries are scheduled to be delivered by end of April 2024.

On the other hand, first delivery of the compressors is expected in March 2024, with final delivery by June 2024. While the industry did the procurement, Transnet will pay for the batteries and compressors.

The agreement, entered into on 22 November 2023, serves as a strategic framework between the two entities to foster collaboration and stability within the South African coal supply chain. It seeks to ensure the efficient and uninterrupted transportation and export of coal through an efficient rail and port system, collaborative problem-solving in the face of interruptions, and compliance with legal and contractual obligations. It also facilitates innovation and investments in infrastructure to support the coal sector.

The Transnet Recovery Plan, which seeks to improve operational efficiency and profitability, hinges on sustainable collaboration with the private sector.