Eskom Suspends Loadshedding After Emergency Reserves Recover

Eskom has officially suspended loadshedding as of 06:00 today following the recovery of its emergency reserves. This marks a return to stability after a temporary setback over the weekend, which interrupted more than 10 months of uninterrupted electricity supply.

The power utility attributed the recent loadshedding to multiple breakdowns in the past week, which extended repair times and depleted emergency reserves. However, Eskom has since replenished these reserves, with dam levels restored and open-cycle gas turbines fully recovered. In addition, five coal-fired generation units have been repaired and returned to service, collectively adding 2 930MW to the national grid. A further 2 391MW is expected to be restored later today.

Despite the brief disruption, Eskom reaffirmed that its Generation Recovery Plan remains effective, with structural improvements and efficiency gains secured. The power utility also reported significant cost savings, having reduced diesel expenditure by over R16.30 billion between April 2024 and January 2025.

Summer Outlook Remains Unchanged

Eskom confirmed that its Summer Outlook, published on 26 August 2024, remains unchanged. The latest figures indicate that unplanned outages currently stand at 13 279MW and are on a downward trend, averaging 12 087MW. Planned maintenance outages account for 6 298MW, aligning with Eskom’s summer maintenance strategy aimed at ensuring grid reliability ahead of winter 2025.

With available capacity standing at 27 957MW and an evening peak demand forecast of 24 456MW, Eskom assured that it is well-positioned to meet electricity demand.

Concerns Over Illegal Connections and Network Overloading

While loadshedding may be under control, Eskom continues to battle network overloading in certain areas due to illegal connections, vandalism, meter tampering, unauthorised operations, and theft of network equipment. The power utility urged the public to avoid illegal connections, warning that such activities pose a safety risk and could lead to extended power outages affecting entire communities.

Customers were also reminded to purchase electricity only from authorised vendors and to report any illegal activities to the Eskom Crime Line at 0800 112 722 or via WhatsApp at 081 333 3323.

Eskom will provide an update on Friday, 7 February 2025, or earlier should any significant developments arise.