Energy Company Engen, a subsidiary of Vivo Energy, reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to South Africa’s coal industry. Speaking at the event, Vusi Nkosi, Engen’s Mining Business Development Manager, highlighted the company’s decades-long collaboration with coal operations delivering dependable fuel, advanced lubricants, and customized technical solutions that keep the sector moving.
Challenging the “Sunset Industry” Perception
Addressing the prevailing notion that coal is a declining or “sunset” industry, Nkosi pointed out that local realities tell a different story. Across South Africa, many mines are extending their operational lifespans and investing in efficiency improvements. “Miners are focused on running their equipment longer and more efficiently,” Nkosi noted. “We’re helping them achieve that with technology that enhances reliability and reduces operating costs.”
Driving Efficiency with AI-Powered Predictive Maintenance
Central to Engen’s presentation was the unveiling of VE-CEM (Vehicle and Equipment Continuous Monitoring), an innovative AI-driven platform designed to transform mine maintenance practices. The system uses real-time data analytics to monitor equipment health, enabling operators to predict potential failures and schedule maintenance only when necessary. This approach significantly reduces unplanned downtime, lowers maintenance costs, and boosts overall fleet performance.
Delivering Complete Operational Visibility
Beyond mechanical diagnostics, VE-CEM provides a comprehensive operational overview by capturing driver behavior, equipment diagnostics, and geolocation data. “We can pinpoint exactly when and why equipment is likely to fail,” Nkosi explained. “That kind of visibility allows mining operations to maintain production consistency while keeping expenses under control.”
Powering Reliability Through the Vivo Energy Network
As part of the wider Vivo Energy group, Engen benefits from an extensive retail and logistics network that ensures reliable fuel and lubricant delivery across South Africa’s mining and industrial sectors. Complementing this infrastructure, Engen also offers on-site technical services including oil analysis and engineering support strengthening its role as a trusted partner to mining clients.
Concluding his address, Nkosi accentuated Engen’s forward-looking vision for the coal sector. “Engen’s message at Coal Africa 2025 is clear: we’re not just a supplier we’re a partner,” he said. “Our commitment is long-term, and our goal is to help the coal industry operate more efficiently, safely, and sustainably through continuous innovation and technical excellence.”
Read more about Engen here
