270 days: Eskom’s longest streak continues

Eskom has maintained its positive operational momentum, marking over 270 consecutive days without load shedding. The power utility last implemented rolling blackouts in April and May 2025.

According to Eskom, the national power system continues to demonstrate sustained stability, underpinned by improvements in plant performance and the ongoing success of its Generation Recovery Plan. "Over the past week, the national grid has remained reliable, with the Energy Availability Factor (EAF) continuing its upward trajectory and unplanned outages decreasing year-on-year," the utility said.

The EAF has reached 65.04% for the financial year to date, with the generation fleet hitting or exceeding the 70% EAF milestone on 66 separate occasions. While average unplanned outages measured 11,397MW last week—a slight increase of 432MW compared to the same period last year—the unplanned capacity loss factor (UCLF) sat at 23.29%, a marginal reduction from the previous year’s performance.

Simultaneously, Eskom has intensified its maintenance strategy. The Planned Capacity Loss Factor (PCLF) rose to 15.79%, up from 10.89% in the prior financial year, reflecting a deliberate effort to strengthen long-term fleet reliability.

Significant diesel savings

The improved EAF has drastically reduced Eskom's reliance on Open Cycle Gas Turbines (OCGTs). Diesel usage over the past week was described as "minimal," confined primarily to test runs at the Ankerlig and Gourikwa power stations.

Year-to-date diesel expenditure is now R4.88 billion lower than the same period last year. "This reflects substantial cost savings and continued improvements in operational performance driven by turnaround initiatives," Eskom said, adding that diesel spending remains consistently below budget.

In a sign of growing system resilience, the utility confirmed it currently holds 3,181MW in "cold reserve" due to excess capacity. To ensure continued stability, Eskom plans to bring an additional 2,429MW of generation capacity online ahead of the evening peak on Monday, 16 February.