Eskom Reports Unplanned Outages Drop Below 8 000MW for First Time Since 2020
Eskom has reported that unplanned outages have dropped below 8 000MW for the first time since 2020, with the power utility highlighting sustained improvements in generation capacity that have kept the system stable and loadshedding at bay, as 4 850MW is set to return by Monday while urging households to register for free basic electricity and report illegal connections to protect infrastructure.
Historic Milestone in Generation Recovery
In a significant boost for South Africa’s energy sector, Eskom announced on Friday, 22 August 2025, that unplanned outages had fallen to 7 265MW—the lowest level in over five years. This marks the first time since 2020 that breakdowns have dipped below the 8 000MW threshold, signalling a turning point in the utility’s ongoing recovery efforts. The drop comes as part of Eskom’s Generation Recovery Plan, which has focused on maintenance and operational enhancements to reduce outages and improve reliability.
From the start of Eskom’s financial year on 1 April to 21 August 2025, the average unplanned outages stood at 10 417MW, a year-on-year reduction of 316MW. This improvement has allowed the power system to remain stable, with no loadshedding implemented since 15 May 2025, except for a brief 26 hours recorded between 1 April and 14 August. The Winter Outlook, published on 5 May 2025 and covering the period ending 31 August, remains on track, indicating that loadshedding will not be necessary if unplanned outages stay below 13 000MW.
Eskom’s sustained technical improvements have ensured a reliable power supply, meeting more than 97% of electricity demand this winter and marking a notable achievement in a country long plagued by energy crises. The utility highlighted that the radiation background at sites like Koeberg has remained normal, with no safety incidents reported amid the stability.
Key Performance Highlights and Fuel Savings
Year-to-date figures show planned maintenance averaging 5 223MW, accounting for 11.12% of total generation capacity—a slight increase from last year but reflective of proactive efforts to address long-term issues. The Energy Availability Factor (EAF) has risen to 60.56%, excluding the 720MW contribution from Kusile Unit 6 (63.35% including it), representing a 2.0% improvement in unplanned maintenance compared to the previous year.
A standout achievement is the reduced reliance on Open-Cycle Gas Turbines (OCGTs), with load factors dropping to 8.53%—a 0.40% decrease. From 1 April to 21 August 2025, Eskom spent R5.916 billion on fuel for these plants, generating 999.956GWh, a 63% reduction from last year. This efficiency has saved costs and reduced environmental impact, aligning with broader sustainability goals.
Over the past week (15-21 August), unplanned outages averaged 10 471MW, lower than the 10 733MW recorded last year and well below the winter base case projection of 13 000MW by 2 529MW. The upward trend in EAF reflects growing stability in coal-fired fleets, which have boosted grid performance during peak winter demand.
Future Outlook: Strengthening Grid Stability
Looking ahead, Eskom plans to return a total of 4 850MW of generation capacity by the evening peak on Monday, 25 August 2025, and throughout the coming week. With loadshedding suspended and electricity demand rising during winter, the utility is committed to maintaining this momentum. The year-to-date load factor for OCGTs has decreased to 8.53%, reflecting a 0.40% drop compared to last year.
To protect critical infrastructure, Eskom urges customers to avoid illegal connections and meter bypassing, which overload transformers and cause extended outages. “With loadshedding suspended and electricity demand rising during the winter period, Eskom urges all customers to act responsibly and help safeguard the power system,” the statement read. Reporting such activities to the Eskom Crime Line at 0800 112 722 or via WhatsApp on 081 333 3323 is encouraged.
Eskom will provide its Summer Outlook in September 2025, but current trends suggest continued stability if unplanned outages remain managed. The utility’s focus on reducing diesel expenditure and optimising OCGT usage has already yielded a 63% drop in fuel costs, providing relief amid economic pressures.
Public Notice: Register for Free Basic Electricity
In a separate notice, Eskom encouraged eligible households to register for free basic electricity (FBE) with their local municipalities. This initiative aims to support low-income families by providing a monthly allocation of electricity units at no cost. “Eligible households are encouraged to register for free basic electricity with their local municipalities,” the notice stated.
The utility also reminded the public to report any illegal activity impacting infrastructure, such as tampering or theft, to prevent power failures. For tips on managing consumption, Eskom’s Residential Calculator is available at https://www.eskom.co.za/distribution/residential-calculator/. An update will be provided on Friday, 29 August 2025, or sooner if significant changes occur.
Broader Implications for South Africa’s Energy Sector
This milestone comes amid Eskom’s broader recovery, with coal fleets showing improved performance and reduced breakdowns. The utility has maintained stability through winter, a period typically marked by higher demand and strain. Experts attribute the progress to enhanced maintenance under the Generation Recovery Plan, which has addressed issues in ageing plants like Kusile and Medupi.
However, challenges persist, including illegal connections that cause outages and financial strains from past diesel reliance. Eskom’s diesel spend for OCGTs from April to August 2025 was R5.916 billion, down significantly from last year, reflecting better fleet management.
As South Africa moves towards summer, the focus shifts to sustaining these gains. With no loadshedding for over 100 days as of August 2025, this update offers hope for a more reliable power supply, boosting economic confidence and reducing the burden on households and businesses. Eskom encourages responsible usage to maintain this stability, urging users to regularise connections and optimise consumption. For the latest updates, visit Eskom’s website or follow their official channels.
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