Eskom Marks 260 Load-Shedding-Free Days as Power System Stability Improves

In a statement, Eskom attributed the improvement to the implementation of its Generation Recovery Plan, government’s Energy Action Plan, and a steady rise in the Energy Availability Factor (EAF).

Eskom says South Africa’s power system continues to stabilise, with the utility recording approximately 260 consecutive days without load shedding, a milestone reflecting sustained progress in its operational recovery.

In a statement, Eskom attributed the improvement to the implementation of its Generation Recovery Plan, government’s Energy Action Plan, and a steady rise in the Energy Availability Factor (EAF).

“Together, these developments are enhancing operational reliability and supporting South Africa’s long-term energy security,” the utility said.

Between 1 April 2025 and 29 January 2026, Eskom’s EAF rose to 64.95%, signalling measurable gains in restoring generation performance and system stability. During this period, the power generation fleet reached or exceeded the 70% EAF threshold on 64 occasions, based on unaudited figures.

“These improvements demonstrate both recovery and sustained performance, reinforcing grid stability and the security of the national electricity supply,” Eskom said.

Unplanned outages have also declined significantly. Eskom reported that unplanned capacity losses dropped from 12 993MW in late January last year to 8 362MW during the same period this year — an improvement of 4 630MW.

Over the same timeframe, the Unplanned Capacity Loss Factor (UCLF) decreased to 17.27%, representing a substantial improvement of 9.90% compared to 27.17% recorded a year earlier. Planned maintenance has also become more efficient, with the Planned Capacity Loss Factor (PCLF) averaging 10.46%, down from 15.82% in the previous financial year.

“This reduction aligns with Eskom’s maintenance strategy and reflects our focus on improving plant reliability, strengthening operational stability, and supporting long-term fleet performance,” the utility said.

Improved generation performance has reduced Eskom’s reliance on expensive diesel-powered Open-Cycle Gas Turbines (OCGTs). After five consecutive weeks without diesel usage, a modest R1.61 million was spent last week, linked to 0.285GWh of electricity generated.

Despite this limited use, Eskom confirmed that total diesel expenditure remains R4.26 billion lower than at the same point last year — highlighting significant cost savings and ongoing operational efficiencies.

“These trends underscore the growing stability, efficiency, and resilience of the power system as Eskom’s turnaround efforts take effect,” the utility said.

Looking ahead, Eskom expects to bring approximately 2 200MW of generation capacity online this week, further strengthening supply.

Call to action for industry and stakeholders

Eskom has encouraged business, investors, and energy stakeholders to engage with the evolving power outlook, as sustained operational improvements create opportunities for economic recovery, investment certainty, and long-term energy planning.