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'The grid is more sensitive to unexpected disruptions,' says Eskom.
Picture: iStock
Eskom has announced it will implement stage 2 load shedding during evening peak periods from 4pm on Tuesday until 10pm on Thursday.
This, it said, is to manage limited generation capacity and ensure continued supply during the working days.
The decision follows the delayed return of generation units amounting to 3 120MW, as well as an additional loss of 1 385MW in the past 24 hours due to unplanned breakdowns.
“The primary reason for this setback is the delay in returning several units from planned maintenance,” said Eskom.
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“These delays, coupled with an unplanned capacity loss that has now temporarily exceeded 13 000MW, align with the risk scenarios shared in our Winter 2025 Outlook.
“Eskom is currently emerging from an intensive maintenance cycle, which is essential for long-term reliability but temporarily reduces system flexibility and resilience. As a result, the grid is more sensitive to unexpected disruptions.”
Eskom has apologised to South Africans for the inconvenience and committed to supplying electricity reliably.
“Our teams continue to work with determination and professionalism to stabilise and strengthen the system as a result of the structural improvements across the generation fleet. Load shedding incidents have significantly decreased when compared to previous years.”
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When it presented its winter 2025 power system outlook last week, Eskom said that its power system had further improved and been more reliable than in recent years.
Load shedding is not expected if unplanned outages remain below 13GW. If outages increase to 15GW, load shedding would be limited to a maximum of 21 days out of 153 days at stage 2 — an improvement of the previous winter’s worst-case prediction of stage 5 load shedding.
On Friday last week, it said the power system was stable, supported by adequate emergency reserves that are strategically deployed when necessary to manage periods of high winter peak demand.
In Tuesday’s announcement, Eskom said the recent setbacks impacted its operational performance.
“Our new Operational Excellence Programme is key to restoring performance. We are reinforcing oversight, strengthening accountability, and aligning service providers with stricter performance standards. This forms part of our broader drive for consistent improvement through Systems, People, and Processes,” said group chief executive, Dan Marokane.
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“We are determined to build on the progress already achieved. The delays in returning units are being addressed with urgency by senior leadership,” concluded Marokane.
Despite current pressures, Eskom has reassured South Africans that the system is in a significantly stronger position than in past winters.
“In the past financial year, 96% of our generating capacity was available, compared to just 9% in the previous year. Eskom will continue to monitor the system closely and provide updates as conditions evolve.”
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