By Phenyo Selinda
South Africa’s power utility, Eskom, has reached a significant milestone, marking 142 consecutive days without load shedding. This achievement is part of Eskom’s Generation Operational Recovery Plan, which has not only ensured consistent power supply but also led to a substantial reduction in diesel expenditure. Since the start of Eskom’s financial year on 1 April 2024, the utility has saved R10.21 billion on diesel costs, representing a 74% decrease compared to the same period last year.
Eskom’s success comes during a period traditionally marked by increased power demand due to winter conditions. The utility has managed to maintain an average of 33,000 MW of available capacity, significantly higher than the anticipated 28,000 MW. This higher-than-expected capacity, coupled with improved operational efficiencies, has been crucial in keeping the lights on across the nation.
Key to this turnaround has been the improved performance of Eskom’s coal fleet, with the Energy Availability Factor (EAF) rising from 55% in 2023 to 63% this year. The reduction in unplanned outages, from 16,404 MW last year to 11,200 MW this year, has further bolstered Eskom’s ability to maintain a stable power supply.
Additionally, Eskom’s strategic management of its Open-Cycle Gas Turbines (OCGTs) has played a pivotal role. The utility has significantly reduced its reliance on these diesel-powered turbines, with the OCGT load factor dropping from 20.50% last year to just 4.67% this year. This decrease has been a major contributor to the overall reduction in diesel usage.
Despite these successes, Eskom continues to caution that the risk of load shedding has not been entirely eliminated, as the utility remains vigilant in managing its aging infrastructure. The planned maintenance of about 5,500 MW of generating capacity, including the anticipated return of key units such as Kusile Unit 6 and Medupi Unit 4, is expected to further stabilize the grid.
Looking ahead, Eskom plans to release its outlook for the summer period on 26 August 2024, which will be critical in assessing whether the current trend of uninterrupted power supply can be sustained.
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