The utility reported that its Energy Availability Factor increased to 63.54% for the financial year to date, up from 58.08% during the same period last year, reflecting sustained gains under its turnaround strategy.
Eskom said the improvement is supported by a reduction in unplanned outages and more consistent performance across its generation fleet.
Between June 12 and June 18, average unplanned outages fell to 10 640MW, a drop of more than 4 600MW compared to the same period in 2025. The Unplanned Capacity Loss Factor improved to 22.19% from 31.83% last year.
The utility also highlighted progress in reducing reliance on diesel. Year-to-date diesel expenditure stands at approximately $34 million (R640.27 million), down significantly from about $240 million (R4.515 billion) in the previous year.
Eskom said the reduction reflects improved fleet performance and reduced dependence on diesel-fired generation, with the Open Cycle Gas Turbine load factor declining to 1.30%, well below the annual target.
Since May 16, 2025, South Africa has recorded 399 consecutive days without load shedding, underscoring improved system reliability.
On the demand side, Eskom confirmed that 886 717 households, representing about 52% of targeted customers, have been restored to normal supply under its Load Reduction Elimination Programme.
The utility aims to eliminate load reduction entirely in most provinces by October 2026, with Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal expected to follow in 2027.
Eskom said progress has been supported by targeted network interventions, although challenges remain.
Illegal connections and meter tampering continue to strain infrastructure in some areas, leading to safety risks and delays in system improvements.
To address this, Eskom has accelerated its smart meter rollout, with nearly 1.8 million meters installed nationwide. About 409 011 of these have been deployed in high-risk load reduction areas.
However, the rollout has faced resistance, including security threats and work stoppages, delaying more than 122 000 planned installations.
Eskom also reported that 484 feeders, or about 50% of its target, have been removed from load reduction, benefiting hundreds of thousands of customers.
Planned maintenance remains a key focus, with the Planned Capacity Loss Factor averaging 10.94%, higher than the previous year, as part of efforts to improve long-term reliability.
The utility said it will bring 3 223MW of additional capacity online ahead of peak demand, with evening demand forecast at 26 387MW against available capacity of 31 533MW.
Eskom reiterated that its Winter Outlook projects no load shedding for the period through August 31, 2026, supported by continued gains in plant performance.
The utility said its improving performance reflects both operational progress and strategic reforms aimed at strengthening SA’s power system.
–ChannelAfrica–
