Auxiliary Fossil Power Plant Operator

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare learners to perform as: Auxiliary Fossil Power Plant Operators. Qualifying learners will be able to operate, monitor, control and perform field operations on fossil power plant auxiliary systems to support the generation of energy in a safe and reliable manner.

The National Development Plan aims to eliminate poverty and reduce inequality by 2030. According to the plan, South Africa can realise these goals by drawing on the energies of its people, growing an inclusive economy, building capabilities, enhancing the capacity of the state, and promoting leadership and partnerships throughout society. Research confirms the fact that there is a direct causal relationship between the availability of reliable and cost-efficient energy and economic development. The Integrated Resource Plan 2010 to 2030 (IRP) anticipates that, to sustain the required economic growth needed to deliver on the South African National Development plan we will have to increase our electricity generating capacity by approximately 40%. This will be done through a balanced mix of electricity generations that is set out in the IRP. Eskom generates approximately 95% of the electricity used in South Africa and approximately 45% of the electricity used in Africa. Eskom generates, transmits and distributes electricity to industrial, mining, commercial, agricultural, residential customers and redistributors. Additional power stations and major power lines are being built to meet rising electricity demand in South Africa. Eskom will continue to focus on improving and strengthening its core business of electricity generation, transmission, trading and distribution. Fossil fuels will remain a significant part of the energy mix for the future, South Africa is endowed with an abundance of coal and has vast resources that can be exploited to the benefit of the country and its people. This qualification is targeted at school leavers with Level 4 and also targeted at developing occupational competence for a key occupational grouping in the power generation value chain. Power Plant Operators are on an eight hour, three shifts in a 24 hour day and ensure the efficient operation of the various power plants. There is a continual shortage of properly skilled power plant operators in this occupation. With this new qualification the situation can be improved and thus curb and/or reduce the demand, and/or shortage of suitably qualified power plant operators in future. The capacity building of this cadre of employees is critical to the success of our National Development Plan and the sustaining of our economy. Obtaining this qualification will launch a learner onto a career path within the industry and will assist in creating the required pool of future leaders in this essential sector.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): RPL for access to the external integrated summative assessment: Accredited providers and approved workplaces must apply the internal assessment criteria specified in the related curriculum document to establish and confirm prior learning. Accredited providers and workplaces must confirm prior learning by issuing a statement of result or certifying a work experience record. RPL for access to the qualification: Accredited providers and approved workplaces may recognise prior learning against the relevant access requirements. Entry Requirements: • Level 4 with Communication, Science and Mathematical Literacy.

• Prepare all fossil power plant systems for service to ensure operability of the plant.
• Perform field operations on the various fossil power plant systems/components during start up, normal operations and shut down.