South African coal exports
up 3.3% in 2011
Transnet delivered an exceptional performance during the latter half of last year. Improved rail has not only exceeded industry expectations but has also boosted coal exports to record highs. Transnet Freight Rail (TFR) railed 65.7Mt of coal to port during 2011, which represents a 4.5% increase on the previous year. During the first half of 2011, TFR railed at an average of 4.8Mtpm, but average railings improved significantly during the second half of the year, reaching 5.8Mtpa by year end.
TFR continues to improve efficiencies on its coal line this year. Public Enterprises Minister Malusi Gigaba has approved the purchase of 43 new diesel-electric locomotives from General Electric South Africa. The new locomotives will be used to transport coal and are expected to improve fuel efficiency and reduce carbon emissions. TFR said it will achieve its set target of 70Mt during the current financial year ending 31 March 2012. During the previous financial year TFR railed 62.2Mt of coal against a set target of 65Mt.
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