Questions raised over Eskom’s R721m diesel payment

Eskom’s diesel payment of R721 million is under scrutiny after an amaBhungane investigation raised questions about 40 million litres of fuel recorded as received in July 2025.

According to amaBhungane, Eskom paid supplier Lanele Resources for the diesel, which was recorded as received at Burgan Terminal in Cape Town.

In July 2025, Eskom bought 40 million litres of diesel from a supplier. It recorded it as “received” it in its books and paid R721-million. But a year later, the diesel – now worth R1-billion – has not been delivered.

Three weeks ago, Eskom released a quiet press statement… pic.twitter.com/2jF0iAyMTN

amaBhungane (@amaBhungane) August 23, 2026

The investigation found that almost a year later, much of the fuel remained outstanding. The diesel is now estimated to be worth about R1 billion.

Eskom disputes claims over missing diesel

AmaBhungane reported that only about 5 million litres were physically held at the terminal, while 38.8 million litres remained outstanding.

Eskom has disputed the suggestion that it paid for fuel that did not exist.

In a 31 July statement, the power utility said an independent verification process found “no discrepancies between the diesel delivered or available to Eskom and the amounts paid” as at 30 June 2026.

Eskom launched an investigation into possible irregularities linked to diesel procurement and storage contracts in March 2025. The investigation followed concerns about contract performance during loadshedding and information received through whistleblowing channels.

The utility said disciplinary action against procurement officials is continuing, while its legal review remains underway.

Eskom expects to issue a further update on the investigation by 31 August 2026.