Eskom's Remarkable Recovery: From Stage 6 Load-shedding to Surplus Power Generation

In what can be described as an extraordinary reversal of fortunes, Eskom, South Africa's national power utility, has achieved a remarkable feat by producing a surplus of electricity – a far cry from last year's crisis of persistent blackouts and Stage 6 load-shedding.

Eskom's head of generation, Bheki Nxumalo, highlighted the stark contrast in the situation from just a year ago. He expressed gratification over the utility's current 'normal form' of operation. According to Nxumalo, the improvement is seen across all of Eskom's power stations, with an energy availability factor (EAF) above 70% in recent weeks.

Eskom's operational highpoint was on 23 July, with a recorded available capacity of 35,000 MW, a figure last achieved six years ago. Energy analyst Chris Yelland applauded the sustained progress as 'exceptional,' noting marked improvements across various operational metrics. The accusations of manipulating performance to influence the national elections were dispelled by the recent data, proving the transformation was genuine.

One unexpected consequence of the improved performance is the excess generation capacity; the grid sees over 10,000 MW of superfluous energy during off-peak times. To preserve stability, the system operator must now dial down production, placing some units in cold reserve – a preferable issue compared to managing a deficient and unpredictable energy supply chain.

The secret behind this successful turnaround lies in the Generation Operational Recovery Plan, approved in March 2023, that laid a roadmap for an intensive maintenance schedule, particularly focusing on the six lowest performing coal-fired plants responsible for most unit failures. Eskom zeroed in on revamping these critical areas, coupled with a focus on enhancing staff performance and accountability.

Nyati, the current chairman, attributed the success to a management overhaul that enhanced leadership and boosted morale across the stations, essential in fostering productivity and proper maintenance processes. Amid leadership reviews and some turnover, Eskom's new ethos bred optimism and confidence in the future of the utility, signaling an impending end to load-shedding.