The utility over the weekend said the development reflects increased reliability in the national grid, supported by ongoing recovery and maintenance efforts. The system has remained stable despite higher electricity demand during winter peak periods.
For the period from April 1 to May 21 2026, Eskom’s Energy Availability Factor reached 62.06%, up from 57.13% during the same period in 2025. The utility said the improvement reflects progress under its generation recovery plan.
Unplanned outages declined during the same period, averaging 9 296MW compared with 14 513MW a year earlier. The Unplanned Capacity Loss Factor decreased to 19.65% from 30.48% in the previous year. Planned maintenance increased to 11.44%, indicating continued efforts to improve reliability and meet environmental compliance requirements. Eskom said 3 588MW of capacity remains in cold reserve.
Diesel use has declined significantly. Between April 1 and May 21 2026, Eskom spent about $34 million equivalent on diesel, compared with about $132 million equivalent during the same period in 2025, representing a reduction of 79.43%. The Open Cycle Gas Turbine load factor decreased to 1.51% from 12.28% in the previous year. Eskom said the reduction in diesel use reflects improved performance of the generation fleet and reduced reliance on emergency generation.
The utility has projected no load shedding for the winter period from April to August 2026, based on current system performance and maintenance plans. Electricity demand for the evening peak on May 25 is forecast at 27 042MW, with available capacity expected to reach 29 313MW.
The report also highlighted progress in addressing load reduction in high-risk areas. Approximately 614 548 customers are no longer affected, representing about 36% of targeted households. Load reduction has been fully eliminated in the Northern and Western Cape provinces.
Eskom said illegal connections and infrastructure damage remain challenges in some areas. These activities continue to affect network stability and pose safety risks.
To address these issues, Eskom is implementing a programme aimed at eliminating load reduction by 2027. The initiative includes the rollout of smart meters, expansion of distributed energy systems and increased access to free basic electricity.
A total of 1 678 447 smart meters have been deployed, with 279 428 installed in high-priority areas. Eskom said deployment has faced delays due to resistance and safety concerns, with more than 122 000 installations postponed.
The utility said continued improvements in generation performance and targeted infrastructure interventions are expected to support grid stability and maintain a reliable electricity supply.
–ChannelAfrica–
