LONDON -- Standard&Poor's CreditWire 7/16/97 -- Standard&Poor's today has assigned its triple-'B'-plus long-term rating toESKOM's South African rand 6 billion zero coupon bonds due 2027. The outlook on the issue is positive. The rating reflects ESKOM's position as South Africa's primary generator and transmitter of electricity and its strategic importance in supporting long-term economic growth in the country. The rating also acknowledges support offered to ESKOM through an evolving regulatory environment, as well as low tariff rates, good plant and management operations, and limited near-term capital needs. Risks reflected in the ratings include a certain reliance on large customers in the cyclical mining and basic metals sectors, an ambitious electrification program, a declining but still substantial
