Power utility Eskom today successfully celebrated 100 conservative days without load shedding being implemented in the country, which it described as a milestone that reflects the enhanced reliability and performance of its generation fleet.
The entity said this accomplishment is the result of its multi-dimensional Generational Operational Recovery Plan, initiated in March 2023, and aggressive planned maintenance.
The last time the country enjoyed such a prolonged period without load shedding was from 08 September 2020 to 11 December 2020.
“The achievement of 100 continuous days without load-shedding is the outcome of diligent execution of recovery plans and the tireless efforts of our 40 000 dedicated and skilled Eskom employees. If we maintain a 70% energy availability factor (EAF) and add significant capacity within the country, we can ensure adequate available capacity to meet demand without a significant risk of load-shedding,” said Eskom Group Executive for Generation, Bheki Nxumalo.
The entity also highlighted that the milestone also comes in conjunction with a decrease in the use of open-cycle gas turbines (OCGTs) to supplement generation capacity.
The OCGTs are used to help meet high electricity demand during peak times.
“Considering the intensity and levels of load-shedding in 2023, the ability to get to 100 days without load-shedding is significant, while acknowledging the risk of load-shedding continues to exist.
The 100 days milestone includes around a R6.2 billion reduction in OCGT diesel expenditure from April 1 to June 30 2024, compared to the same period last year.
If we maintain our trajectory on reduced diesel spend, it will be a strong driver in a possible return to profit in FY25,” explained Eskom CEO Dan Marokane.
Eskom said it’s immediate focus remains on implementing the generation operational recovery plan, aiming to recover about 1 600MW from the generation coal fleet after the successful commercial operation of Kusile unit 5 and 930MW from Koeberg unit 2 before the end of the calendar year, which will significantly improve the EAF by the end of March 2025.
Meanwhile, the Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa has also noted the 100 days without load shedding, describing them as a significant milestone in a journey towards a more stable and reliable electricity supply
“This achievement is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and collaboration of all those involved in the energy sector.
I want to express my sincere appreciation to ESKOM, its competent employees, and all stakeholders for their efforts in ensuring that we maintain a consistent power supply for our nation.
The absence of load shedding not only benefits our economy and businesses but also enhances the quality of the lives of our citizens,” said an elated Ramokgopa.
