Eskom has achieved a significant milestone by reaching 35 000 MW of available capacity for the first time in six years.
This achievement is largely attributed to a substantial reduction in unplanned outages, which averaged 9 841 MW in the past week (as of July 26), compared to 16 467 MW during the same period last year.
Eskom has also reported an average Energy Availability Factor (EAF) of 70% over the past seven days. Notably, six power stations, including Medupi, Kusile, Matla, Matimba, Grootvlei, and Lethabo, have recorded an EAF exceeding this average. This is a marked improvement from the 55% EAF recorded for the same period last year. Furthermore, diesel consumption for winter has remained lower than expected, with approximately 4 343 MW of generating capacity returning to service on July 29.
Eskom has ramped up its maintenance, which has led to these positive results, says Chris Yelland, Managing Director of EE Business Intelligence. “Eskom can now complete more planned maintenance due to the reduction in unplanned outages, allowing them to shut down generation facilities for essential upkeep.”
Yelland also notes the financial support from the Treasury, which has enabled Eskom to access funds previously unavailable for maintenance. “You need money and capacity, but you also need time. Maintenance needs to be planned and paid for one to two years in advance. Now this much-needed work is coming to fruition.”
However, Yelland acknowledges that external factors have also contributed to Eskom’s improved performance. “Demand has decreased due to the weakened economy and rising electricity prices, prompting energy-intensive industries like iron smelting and aluminium to relocate outside the country. Smaller, less energy-intensive businesses such as banking and insurance are growing, leading to a reduction in our electricity consumption per unit of GDP.”
He adds that rising prices have prompted South Africans to use electricity more efficiently. “There is less demand on the grid and less load shedding. It all works together.”
