Cape Town — Eskom says it has reached a remarkable milestone of 300 consecutive days without load shedding, a streak last achieved in June 2018.
This achievement, the power utility said, is the result of the Generation Recovery Plan implemented in March 2023, which has consistently improved the performance of the Generation Fleet. Eskom is now aiming to complete a full year without loadshedding by March 26, 2025.
“Credit goes to our 40,000 dedicated and skilled employees who remain committed to serving South Africa. Our focus is now on reaching one year without loadshedding,” said Bheki Nxumalo, Eskom’s Group Executive for Generation.
Loadshedding suspension reaches 300 days – over nine months, to deliver energy security and inclusive socio-economic growth. pic.twitter.com/6RLq0espJS
— Eskom Hld SOC Ltd (@Eskom_SA) January 21, 2025
Nxumalo highlighted the significant reduction in unplanned outages as a key driver of this success. The improvements in the Energy Availability Factor (EAF) have also resulted in cost savings exceeding R16 billion on diesel expenditures, he added.
Eskom CEO Dan Morokane noted that the ongoing implementation of the Generation Recovery Plan has strengthened business confidence and contributed positively to South Africa’s GDP.
“Public sentiment is shifting. Business leaders, who once allocated capital to self-generation, are now reconsidering investments in Eskom. The savings from reduced diesel usage are being reinvested into operations to drive further efficiencies and ensure long-term profitability and sustainability,” Morokane stated.
This milestone, Eskom said, would not have been possible without the support of stakeholders, including the Ministry of Electricity and Energy, the board, and the National Energy Crisis Committee (NECOM).
The utility reaffirmed its commitment to implementing the recovery plan, combating crime and corruption, and ensuring energy security for South Africa and the broader sub-Saharan region.
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Compiled by Matthew Petersen
