Eskom said on Friday it has reached a significant milestone by operating for 275 consecutive days without loadshedding since 26 March 2024.
The power utility said this achievement reflected the success of its Generation Recovery Plan and enhanced maintenance strategies aimed at addressing South Africa’s energy challenges.
The utility is leveraging the December summer break for increased maintenance, with activities averaging 8,000 MW.
Eskom’s summer outlook, issued in August, predicts a loadshedding-free period until 31 March 2025.
“Operational improvements include an 8.1% year-on-year reduction in unplanned outages and a diesel savings of R16.20 billion, down from R24.89 billion in the same period last year,” said Eskom in a statement.
“Current unplanned outages average 11,900 MW, an improvement of 1,100 MW compared to the summer 2024 base case of 13,000 MW. As of today, unplanned outages stand at 11,154 MW, representing a 2,542 MW reduction compared to last year.”
Eskom said the Energy Availability Factor (EAF) has improved, averaging 62.37% year-to-date, with five power stations exceeding 60%.
“Eskom’s peaking stations performed exceptionally, with EAFs above 70%,” said the power utility.
“With 26,906 MW available and a forecasted peak demand of 22,474 MW, Eskom is positioned to meet electricity needs. Additional capacity of 2,950 MW is expected online by Monday.”
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