Eskom marks 200 days of loadshedding suspension that has led to predictions of 2% GDP growth for South Africa
13 October 2024
Eskom has today successfully delivered 200 consecutive days of uninterrupted power supply since 26 March 2024 as a result of the Generation Operational Recovery Plan. This plan has not only reduced unplanned outages by ~8.6% and improved the Energy Availability Factor (EAF) by ~7.7%, enhancing the reliability of our generation fleet, but it has positively impacted the economic outlook and Eskom’s profitability. The plan is projected to contribute to a potential ~2% growth in the South African economy and improve Eskom’s financial performance for the financial year 2025 (April 1, 2024, to March 31, 2025).
“We are in an incredibly exciting industry at a moment of tangible change. In preparation for a competitive electricity market this is a significant milestone to ensure energy security and attracting investment to South Africa. We are days away from a further milestone that demonstrates the stability of our fleet, on Saturday 18 October 2024 we are on track to reach 206 days without loadshedding, a result we last delivered five years ago on 15 October 2019,” said Dan Marokane, Eskom Group Chief Executive.
“The dedication of all Eskom employees has been crucial in driving these positive outcomes, and their contributions are clearly reflected in today’s results. We wish to convey our thanks to all our employees for reaching this achievement and we recognise that this is the result of immense hard work and time spent away from friends and families to deliver a national imperative in a high-pressure turnaround environment,” said Eskom Group Executive for Generation, Bheki Nxumalo.
“To address the crisis that the current Eskom Board inherited when they took office in October 2022, it conducted an independent investigation and consulted with power station management using a data-driven approach to create the Generation Recovery Plan. Today’s achievement is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our entire team in implementing this plan. It demonstrates that with the right leadership, strategic planning, and unwavering commitment, we can overcome even the most daunting challenges. Eskom’s journey towards a stable and reliable power supply is well on track, and we remain focused on sustaining this progress for the benefit of all South Africans, said Eskom Board Chairperson, Mteto Nyati.
“The Eskom Board is grateful for the support and collaborative efforts of all our key stakeholders, including the government and the National Energy Crisis Committee (NECOM) members which enabled us to reach this milestone today,” concluded Nyati.
Delivering a competitive and sustainable future proof Eskom
Eskom remains focused on achieving financial and operational sustainability by implementing ongoing structural improvements to enhance the reliability of its generation fleet. The target is to reach a 70% EAF by March 2025, which will not only ensure a stable energy supply but also reduce diesel expenditure. Additionally, Eskom is focused on reducing municipal arrear debt, strengthening measures to combat crime and corruption, and developing a skilled workforce to secure its long-term success.
As part of its strategy to foster a competitive energy industry, significant progress is being made towards the legal separation of Eskom’s operations. Plans are in place to establish independent generation and distribution subsidiaries under Eskom Holdings SOC Limited within the same timeframe. This restructuring aims to enhance efficiency and strengthen the company’s future sustainability.
Eskom is further committed to diversifying its energy sources by launching 2 000MW of clean energy projects as part of its push for a sustainable energy future.
Issued by Eskom Media Office, 13 October 2024
