It has been 100 days since Eskom last implemented load-shedding, signalling marked improvement in generation and financial performance.

The milestone reflects the enhanced reliability and performance of Eskom’s generation fleet, the power utility said in a media statement this morning.

“This accomplishment is the result of our multi-dimensional Generation Operational Recovery Plan, initiated in March 2023, and aggressive planned maintenance, both of which were made possible by financial support from the National Treasury Eskom debt relief scheme.”

The last time the country had such a prolonged period without load-shedding was from September 8 to December 11, 2020.

“The achievement of 100 continuous days without load-shedding is the outcome of the diligent execution of recovery plans and the tireless efforts of our 40 000 dedicated and skilled Eskom employees,” says Bheki Nxumalo, group executive for generation.

“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,” he adds.

“Considering the intensity and the levels of load-shedding in 2023, the ability to get to 100 days without load-shedding is significant, while acknowledging that the risk of load-shedding still exists,” says Eskom group CEO Dan Marokane.

Eskom says the continuous suspension of load-shedding has been achieved against a backdrop of a significant decrease in the usage of open-cycle gas turbines (OCGTs) to supplement generation capacity. OCGTs are used to assist Eskom in meeting high electricity demand during peak times.

The 100-day milestone includes a reduction of around R6.2b in OCGT diesel expenditure from April 1 to June 30, compared with the same period last year, says Eskom. “If we maintain our trajectory on reduced diesel spend, it will be a strong driver in a possible return to profit in FY25,” says Marokane.

Targeted initiatives have led to a gradual reduction of unplanned losses on Eskom’s generation fleet, from 18 000MW to an average of 12 000MW, an improvement of 6 000MW since May 2023.

This has contributed to a sustained improvement in the EAF, which has increased from 54.56% at the end of FY23/24 to a year-to-date achievement of 61.50%, an increase of 6.94% over the past three months, says Eskom.

“Our immediate focus remains on implementing the Generation Operational Recovery Plan, aiming to recover about 1 600MW from the generation coal fleet following the successful commercial operation of Kusile Unit 5 and 930MW from Koeberg Unit 2 before the end of the calendar year. This will significantly improve the EAF by the end of March 2025.

“We remain committed to improving the current business while laying the groundwork for future opportunities and initiatives.”