Eskom recently issued a short notice announcement that they will implement Stage 2 loadshedding during the evening peak from today, May 13, 16:00 until 22:00 on Thursday, May 15, to manage limited generation capacity and ensure continued supply during working days.
According to a media statement released by Eskom today, this decision follows the delayed return of generation units amounting to three units of 120MW each, as well as an additional loss of 1 385MW in the past 24 hours due to unplanned breakdowns.
The primary reason for this setback is the delay in returning several units from planned maintenance. These delays, coupled with an unplanned capacity loss that has now temporarily exceeded 13 000MW, align with the risk scenarios shared in our Winter 2025 Outlook.
Eskom is currently emerging from an intensive maintenance cycle, which is essential for long-term reliability but temporarily reduces system flexibility and resilience. As a result, the grid is more sensitive to unexpected disruptions.
The statement said, “We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience this causes. Eskom remains firmly committed to supplying electricity reliably. Our teams continue to work with determination and professionalism to stabilise and strengthen the system as a result of the structural improvements across the generation fleet. Loadshedding incidents have significantly decreased when compared to previous years.”
The recent setbacks impacted Eskom’s operational performance and have been acknowledged in their Winter Outlook, along with a clear recovery plan.
Eskom Group Chief Executive Dan Marokane said, “Our new Operational Excellence Programme is key to restoring performance. We are reinforcing oversight, strengthening accountability, and aligning service providers with stricter performance standards. This forms part of our broader drive for consistent improvement through Systems, People, and Processes.”
He added, “We are determined to build on the progress already achieved. The delays in returning units are being addressed with urgency by senior leadership.”
Despite current pressures, the system is in a significantly stronger position than in past winters. In the past financial year, 96% of our generating capacity was available, compared to just 9% in the previous year.
They also continue to expand capacity. Three major Eskom projects are on track to bring an additional 2 500MW onto the grid, a crucial milestone towards full recovery, with commitment from their private sector partners to deliver on their commitments.
“Eskom will continue to monitor the system closely and provide updates as conditions evolve,” the statement concluded
