Eskom details load shedding outlook for 2025

South Africa has enjoyed an uninterrupted electricity supply for almost a year now, with Eskom reporting no load shedding since March 2024. 

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The country, long accustomed to frequent blackouts, has seen the power utility achieve 294 days – and counting – of ‘lights on’ as of mid-January 2025.

In a X post, Eskom attributed this achievement to the success of its Generation Recovery Plan which has dramatically improved its operational performance.

Unplanned outages were reduced by 8.1% compared to the previous year, and Eskom’s forecast for the rest of the summer season suggests that no load shedding will be required.

For this summer, unplanned unavailability is predicted to be about 11 500MW, which is significantly lower than earlier forecasts.

Saved R16.2 billion in diesel costs

Eskom’s efforts, including an increased focus on maintenance during the December break, have also helped save R16.2 billion in diesel costs, a 65.1% reduction from the previous year.

While these results are encouraging, the power utility remains cautious, noting a potential shortfall of over 2 000MW in the winter months ahead.

However, despite the progress, Eskom’s long-term outlook for 2025 includes a ‘likely risk’ of power shortages during winter, though the utility remains optimistic that its current trajectory will minimise the likelihood of disruptions.

After over 15 years of rolling blackouts, South Africans have welcomed the stability in power supply, marking a significant milestone for Eskom and the country as a whole.

Do you think Eskom can go the whole of 2025 without implementing load shedding?

Let us know by clicking on the comment tab below this article or by emailing info@thesouthafrican.com or sending a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1

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