An independent energy expert said that Eskom’s fallout with computer technology company Oracle threatened the livelihoods of many South Africans.
Eskom’s found itself in a contractual dispute with the South African arm of Oracle.
The firm provides various technical support services that include the Maximo maintenance software for planned maintenance in power stations, online vending systems and some accounts and billing systems, among others.
The company claimed that it had been underpaid by around R7.3 billion. Eskom denied this, saying that the amount was R166 million.
“It really does threaten the livelihood and the security of every single citizen in this country because if Eskom falls over, we don’t have alternatives,” said independent energy expert, Ted Blom.
Eskom said that there were teams within Eskom ready and on the ball to provide these technical support services should Oracle pull out.
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