Eskom has maintained loadshedding suspension for over eight months (247 consecutive days), the longest uninterrupted power supply streak in five years.
Story Summary:
- Eskom marks 247 days without loadshedding, the longest uninterrupted power supply in five years.
- Unplanned outages average 10,612MW, and planned maintenance rises to 9,028MW.
- Loadshedding is unlikely this weekend, with generation capacity exceeding demand.
Eskom power update for this weekend: Here’s what you must know
This milestone can be credited to the success of Eskom’s Generation Recovery Plan, which has contributed to R17.37 billion in diesel savings, approximately 71.9% less than the R24.15 billion spent during the same period last year.
Unplanned outages have dropped to an average of 10,612MW this week, a significant improvement from 15,671MW during the same period in 2023.
Planned maintenance has risen to 9,028MW, aligning with Eskom’s summer maintenance strategy to prepare for winter 2025.
The Energy Availability Factor (EAF) averaged 59.2% over the past week and 63.0% year-to-date, with top-performing stations, including Medupi and Kusile, achieving over 70% EAF.
What is the likelihood of loadshedding?
Loadshedding is highly unlikely this weekend. Eskom’s operational efficiency is bolstered by reduced unplanned outages, which have dropped to 9,672MW—3,168MW lower than the summer 2024 base case.
With an available generation capacity of 29,128MW and a peak demand forecast of 25,809MW, Eskom has sufficient capacity to meet the nation’s electricity needs.
Additionally, the completion of Eskom’s pre-paid meter KRN rollover project further enhances system stability.
