Eskom
By Mpho Moloi
Eskom, South Africa’s primary electricity provider, has announced that it has managed to suspend loadshedding for 214 consecutive days since 26 March 2024. According to Eskom, this achievement is a testament to the success of its Generation Recovery Plan, which has been pivotal in ensuring a stable power supply across the nation. In a statement released on Friday, Eskom attributed this accomplishment to improved operational efficiency, strategic maintenance, and reduced reliance on costly resources, all aimed at supporting South Africa’s energy demands during the summer months and beyond.
Improved Operational Efficiency
Eskom’s Energy Availability Factor (EAF) has remained consistently high, with an average of 62% over the past week and a year-to-date EAF of 63%. These figures are driven by the top performance of power stations such as Kusile, Grootvlei, Majuba, and Camden, which have achieved EAFs exceeding 70%. Four additional power stations have also reported EAFs above 60%, ensuring system reliability and enhancing Eskom’s ability to meet South Africa’s electricity needs.
Over the past week, Eskom has reported operational efficiency surpassing its summer 2024 expectations. Unplanned outages have been reduced to between 10,000MW and 11,800MW. Currently, unplanned outages are at 10,705MW, marking a 2,295MW improvement from the summer base case scenario. This reduction is a clear indication of Eskom’s commitment to enhancing its operational efficiency, which has played a significant role in preventing loadshedding for an extended period.
As of Friday, Eskom’s available generation capacity stands at 29,273MW, with peak demand projected to reach 26,016MW later in the evening. By Monday, an additional 4,200MW of power is expected to return to the grid, thanks to Eskom’s strategic use of cold reserve units, which are being maintained this weekend to ensure supply and demand balance.
Reduced Reliance on Open-Cycle Gas Turbines (OCGTs)
A crucial part of Eskom’s Generation Recovery Plan has been the reduction in reliance on Open-Cycle Gas Turbines (OCGTs), which are typically expensive to operate. From 1 April to 24 October 2024, Eskom has spent R6.2 billion on OCGTs, a 66.5% decrease from the R18.52 billion spent over the same period last year. This significant reduction is a testament to Eskom’s commitment to sustainable energy management and cost-efficiency.
Eskom’s Summer Outlook and Maintenance Strategy
In August, Eskom unveiled its summer outlook, forecasting a loadshedding-free period from 1 September 2024 to 31 March 2025. This optimistic outlook is grounded in structural improvements in power generation and a robust maintenance strategy, which aligns with Eskom’s efforts to ensure system reliability. Eskom has reiterated that this outlook remains unchanged and that it is on track to deliver uninterrupted electricity to South Africans throughout the summer.
Key Performance Highlights
1. Reduction in Unplanned Outages
Eskom has achieved a year-to-date Unplanned Capacity Loss Factor (UCLF) of 25.4%, a substantial improvement from the 33.61% recorded during the same period last year. This 8.2% improvement underscores Eskom’s ongoing efforts to enhance the reliability of its power generation units.
2. Ongoing Planned Maintenance
Planned maintenance is currently at 6,591MW, in line with Eskom’s summer maintenance strategy. This proactive approach aims to increase the reliability of Eskom’s power stations in preparation for the winter months of 2025 and beyond.
3. Sustained Energy Availability Factor (EAF) Improvement
The year-to-date EAF has risen to 63.0%, a marked improvement from 55.6% during the same period last year. From 21 October to 24 October 2024, the weekly EAF stood at 63.8%, reflecting a 6.8% increase from the beginning of the financial year. This improvement can be attributed to a reduction in unplanned outages, further bolstering Eskom’s ability to maintain a stable power supply.
4. Strategic Utilisation of Open-Cycle Gas Turbines (OCGTs)
Eskom’s strategic use of OCGTs and pumped storage facilities continues to play a vital role in managing electricity demand during peak hours, particularly between 17:00 and 22:00. Between 1 April and 24 October 2024, Eskom spent R6.2 billion on OCGTs, generating 947.21 GWh. This expenditure represents a 66.5% reduction compared to last year’s R18.52 billion for 3,015.97 GWh. The OCGT load factor has also decreased significantly, from 17.78% last year to 5.58% this year.
Community Engagement and Safety Initiatives
While loadshedding remains suspended, Eskom continues to face challenges related to network overloading in certain areas. These issues stem from illegal connections, vandalism, meter tampering, unauthorised network operations, and the theft of network equipment. Eskom has urged customers to avoid illegal connections, as they pose public safety hazards and can lead to extended power outages for local communities. The utility has also encouraged customers to purchase electricity only from authorised vendors to ensure the integrity of the network.
In its ongoing efforts to protect its infrastructure, Eskom has launched the “Save Your Transformers, Save Lives” campaign. This initiative aims to educate the public on the dangers of tampering with transformers and other network components. Eskom has also provided contact information for reporting illegal activities, including the Eskom Crime Line at 0800 112 722 and a WhatsApp number, 081 333 3323.
With 24 November 2024 approaching, Eskom is also urging customers to recode their meters to prevent them from expiring, which could result in a sudden loss of electricity. The utility plans to provide an update on its operational status on 1 November 2024 or sooner if any significant developments arise.
Looking Forward: Eskom’s Plans for a Sustainable Future
Eskom’s achievements over the past few months highlight the effectiveness of its Generation Recovery Plan and its commitment to operational excellence. With a stable EAF and reduced reliance on expensive resources, Eskom is optimistic about its ability to sustain a loadshedding-free summer, providing relief to South Africans who have endured frequent power outages in recent years.
The utility’s focus on improving operational efficiency, reducing unplanned outages, and enhancing the reliability of its infrastructure underscores its dedication to delivering a stable power supply. As Eskom continues to work towards a sustainable future, its efforts are expected to contribute significantly to South Africa’s economic stability and growth.
In the coming months, Eskom plans to continue its proactive maintenance strategy to prepare for the winter of 2025 and to further reduce the risk of unplanned outages. This strategy, combined with Eskom’s ongoing investments in renewable energy sources and infrastructure upgrades, is expected to enhance South Africa’s energy security in the long term.
Eskom’s Generation Recovery Plan has proven to be a transformative initiative, enabling the utility to achieve record-breaking periods without loadshedding. This accomplishment is not only a source of pride for Eskom but also a testament to the resilience and dedication of its workforce. With continued focus and investment, Eskom is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping a sustainable energy future for South Africa.
Download Newspaper Here⬇️⬇️⬇️
Read all our publications on magzter:
https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues
_______________________
Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za
Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za
Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487
Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za
Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube
#centralnewsza #freestate