Eskom has removed five provinces from its Load Reduction Eradication Programme, marking a significant milestone in the power utility’s drive to improve electricity reliability and strengthen South Africa’s distribution network.
The programme, launched in September 2025, has now delivered load-reduction relief to more than one million residents, achieving 65% of Eskom’s overall eradication target.
Mpumalanga, Western Cape, Northern Cape, North West and the Free State are the latest provinces to be removed from the programme, following targeted interventions aimed at reducing pressure on local electricity networks.
Eskom attributed the progress to coordinated efforts by employees, improved operational management and decisive leadership focused on restoring stability across the power system.
The utility said the achievement forms part of its wider operational and financial sustainability strategy, which includes reducing energy losses, upgrading ageing infrastructure and investing in a more resilient electricity network.
“Through targeted investment in strengthening distribution infrastructure, Eskom is improving reliability, enhancing customer experience and delivering long-term benefits to households, schools, clinics, businesses and communities,” the utility said.
The removal of provinces from the programme is expected to support economic activity by providing more predictable electricity supply for businesses and consumers, while helping reduce disruptions that affect productivity and service delivery.
Eskom also warned that illegal connections, electricity theft, meter tampering and infrastructure vandalism remain major threats to network stability. The utility urged communities and customers to help protect electricity infrastructure to prevent supply interruptions and safety risks.
The power utility reaffirmed its commitment to improving overall system performance and achieving the complete eradication of load reductions nationwide by March 2027.
