Eskom Leases Historic Steam Locomotives to Preserve Railway Heritage

Eskom has finalized a five-year lease agreement for its collection of five historically significant steam locomotives, announcing New Cape Central Railway Ltd as the successful bidder following an open tender process that began in May 2024.

Heritage Preservation Through Leasing

The handover ceremony took place at Eskom Rotek Industries on Monday, coinciding with South Africa's Heritage Month theme of "Reimagine Heritage Institutions for a New Era." The utility chose a lease arrangement rather than selling the locomotives, allowing Eskom to maintain ownership while ensuring their preservation.

"At Eskom, we acknowledge our duty not only to deliver electricity but also to safeguard the valuable heritage assets entrusted to us," said Eskom Group Chief Executive, Dan Marokane, during the ceremony.

Saving Railway History

The locomotives were previously housed at the now-defunct South African National Rail and Steam Museum (SANRASM) in Krugersdorp, where they were originally intended for restoration and public exhibition. After retrieving these historical assets, Eskom has now secured their future through this structured partnership.

The leasing process was conducted with guidance from the South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA) and the Heritage Railway Association of South Africa (HRASA) to ensure compliance with national heritage standards.

Industrial Legacy

"These iconic locomotives have powered the energy industry for more than a century," explained Eskom Rotek Industries Chief Executive Officer, Hector Danisa. "This milestone demonstrates our shared commitment to preserving them and making them accessible through structured partnerships, keeping their legacy for many years to come."

The locomotives, located at Rosherville in Gauteng, form part of South Africa's industrial and cultural heritage. Their preservation ensures that future generations can appreciate the role of rail transport in the country's energy development.

Outlook

While this lease agreement focuses on heritage preservation rather than Eskom's core electricity operations, it reflects the utility's broader approach to asset management. As Eskom recently marked its 102nd anniversary on March 1st, 2025, this heritage preservation initiative runs parallel to its ongoing work to maintain operational stability in the electricity sector.

The five-year lease term suggests that Eskom will reassess the arrangement in 2030, potentially extending the partnership if the preservation objectives are successfully met.