Why this matters to you
This update helps households and businesses plan around energy use and potential interruptions. After years of load shedding uncertainty, Eskom says the system is now structurally stronger. This article breaks down what has improved, how much capacity has been added, and what Eskom says will happen next.
What is happening?
Eskom says South Africa started 2026 with the most stable power system in five years. Since launching its Generation Recovery Plan in April 2023, the utility has:
- Added 4 400MW of capacity
- Improved overall performance of its coal fleet
- Reduced emergency diesel use by R16 billion in 2025
The Energy Availability Factor (EAF) rose from 56.03% in 2023 to 64.55% in early 2026. In the current financial year (from April 2025), the fleet exceeded the 70% availability benchmark on 55 days.
What you need to know
Eskom says key performance improvements have come from better maintenance, planning, and financial support.
Key metrics at a glance:
| Indicator | April 2023 | January 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Energy Availability Factor (EAF) | 56.03% | 64.55% |
| Unplanned Capacity Loss Factor (UCLF) | 31.92% | 16.02% |
| Planned Maintenance (PCLF) | 12.76% (FY2025 peak) | 9.32% |
| Diesel Savings (FY2025) | — | ~R16 billion |
Financial impact:
- Eskom’s R254 billion debt relief package, passed in 2023, enabled preventative maintenance and upgrades.
- SA received its first credit rating upgrade in 20 years, partly linked to improved energy stability.
What you should do next
- Households: You can expect fewer power cuts, but Eskom urges continued energy efficiency, especially during peak hours (06:00–09:00 and 17:00–21:00).
- Businesses: Consider resuming or scaling energy-dependent operations with more confidence. Monitor Friday power updates from Eskom.
- Local government and SMEs: Use this period of stability to invest in backup-free service delivery where possible.
Where to get help and updates
Eskom now provides a weekly Power System Update every Friday:
- Eskom Data Portal — for real-time performance
- Follow Eskom on Twitter and Facebook
- Media queries: mediadesk@eskom.co.za
