Mzansi celebrates 100 days of no load shedding

South Africans have congratulated the State power utility, Eskom, after it has reached 100 days without implementing load shedding for the first time since 2020 on Friday (July 5).

Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, says this milestone is a testament to the hard work and dedication of not only Eskom employees but also the collaboration of those in the energy sector.

“This achievement is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and collaboration of all those involved in the energy sector. I want to express my sincere appreciation to Eskom, its competent employees, and all stakeholders for their efforts in ensuring that we maintain a consistent power supply for our nation,” Ramokgopa.

“Considering the Intensity and the levels of load shedding in 2023, the ability to get to 100 days without load shedding is significant, while acknowledging that the risk of load shedding still exists.

“The 100 days milestone includes around a – R6.2 billion reduction in OCT [Open cycle gas turbines] diesel expenditure from 1 April 2024 to 30 June 2024, compared to the same period last year and if we maintain our trajectory on reduced diesel spend, it will be a strong driver in a possible return to profit in FY25,” Eskom’s Group Chief Executive Dan Marokane said.

The power utility’s Head of Generation, Bheki Nxumalo, highlighted that the 100 days is a result of the “tireless efforts” of those working to keep the lights on at the power utility.

“The achievement of 100 continuous days without load shedding is the outcome of the diligent execution of recovery plans and the tireless efforts of our 40 000 dedicated and skilled Eskom employees.

“If we maintain a 70% Energy Availability Factor (EAF) and add significant capacity within the country we can ensure adequate available capacity to meet demand without a significant risk of load shedding,” Nxumalo said.