Eskom has recorded 200 days without implementing load shedding in South Africa, with the last day of load shedding being on 26 March this year.

The power utility on Sunday said the implementation of the Generation Operational Recovery Plan has yielded a reduction of [about] 8.6% in unplanned outages, and an improvement in the Energy Availability Factor by [about] 7.7%.

‘The plan is projected to contribute to a potential 2% growth in the South African economy and improve Eskom’s financial performance for the financial year 2025,’ Eskom said.

Eskom Group Chief Executive Dan Marokane called it a ‘significant moment’.

‘We are in an incredibly exciting industry at a moment of tangible change. In preparation for a competitive electricity market, this is a significant milestone to ensure energy security and attracting investment to South Africa.

‘We are days away from a further milestone that demonstrates the stability of our fleet… We are on track to reach 206 days [on Saturday] without load shedding, a resu
lt we last delivered five years ago on 15 October 2019,’ Marokane said.

The power utility’s Group Executive for Generation, Bheki Nxumalo, praised Eskom officials for the work they have put in to address load shedding.

‘The dedication of all Eskom employees has been crucial in driving these positive outcomes, and their contributions are clearly reflected in today’s results.

‘We wish to convey our thanks to all our employees for reaching this achievement and we recognise that this is the result of immense hard work and time spent away from friends and families to deliver a national imperative in a high pressure turnaround environment,’ Nxumalo said.

Eskom Board Chairperson, Mteto Nyati, explained that when it came in, the board conducted an ‘independent investigation and consulted with power station management using a data-driven approach to create the Generation Recovery Plan’.

‘Today’s achievement is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our entire team in implementing this plan. It demonstrate
s that with the right leadership, strategic planning and unwavering commitment, we can overcome even the most daunting challenges.

‘Eskom’s journey towards a stable and reliable power supply is well on track, and we remain focused on sustaining this progress for the benefit of all South Africans.

‘The Eskom Board is grateful for the support and collaborative efforts of all our key stakeholders, including government and the National Energy Crisis Committee (NECOM) members, who enabled us to reach this milestone today,’ Nyati said.

Source: South African Government News Agency