Today marks 100 consecutive days of no loadshedding in South Africa, a feat last attained four years ago.
Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, the Minister of Electricity and Energy, claimed on Friday that Eskom workers’ arduous efforts were responsible for the 100 consecutive days of no loadshedding.
The last time the country had such a prolonged period without rolling power cuts was from September 8, 2020, to December 8, 2020.
“Today [Friday] marks a significant milestone in our journey towards a more stable and reliable electricity supply,” said Ramokgopa.
Huge milestone
“I am pleased to announce that we have reached 100 consecutive days without any loadshedding.
“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.
“The absence of loadshedding not only benefits our economy and businesses but also enhances the quality of the lives of our citizens.
“As we celebrate this milestone, let us remain committed to the continuous improvement of our energy infrastructure, the diversification of our energy sources, and the promotion of sustainable practices.
“Together, we can build a resilient and efficient energy sector that meets the needs of our country now and in the future.
“Thank you to everyone who has contributed to this achievement. Let us strive to maintain this positive momentum in our quest for energy sovereignty.”
Reliability of generation fleet
Similarly, Eskom said the “achievement” of 100 consecutive days without loadshedding is a reflection of the enhanced reliability and performance of the power utility’s generation fleet.
“Eskom has successfully achieved 100 consecutive days without loadshedding, a milestone that reflects the enhanced reliability and performance of our generation fleet,” Eskom said in a media statement.
“This accomplishment is the result of our multi-dimensional generation operational recovery plan initiated in March 2023 and aggressive planned maintenance, both of which were made possible by financial support from the National Treasury Eskom debt relief scheme.
“The last time the country enjoyed such a prolonged period without loadshedding was from September 8, 2020, to December 11, 2020.”
Execution of recovery plans
Eskom group executive for generation Bheki Nxumalo said the “achievement” of 100 continuous days without loadshedding is the outcome of diligent execution of recovery plans and the tireless efforts of dedicated and skilled Eskom employees.
“If we maintain a 70% energy availability factor and add significant capacity within the country, we can ensure adequate available capacity to meet demand without a significant risk of loadshedding,” said Nxumalo.
Eskom group chief executive Dan Marokane cautioned that the risk of loadshedding still exists.
“Considering the intensity and the levels of loadshedding in 2023, the ability to get to 100 days without loadshedding is significant, while acknowledging that the risk of loadshedding still exists,” said Marokane.
