Eskom Achieves 280 Consecutive Days Without Load Shedding in South Africa

Sustained Reliability and Performance Metrics

South Africa has marked a significant period of energy stability, with Eskom reporting 280 consecutive days without load shedding as of February 20, 2026. This achievement underscores a notable improvement in the country's power system reliability. During the current financial year, only 26 hours of load shedding were recorded in April and May 2025, highlighting a dramatic shift from previous years.

The improved performance is largely credited to Eskom's Generation Recovery Plan, initiated in April 2023. Key performance indicators demonstrate this progress:

• The Energy Availability Factor (EAF) has risen to 65.11% for the financial year to date (April 1, 2025, to February 19, 2026).
• The generation fleet has achieved or surpassed the 70% EAF mark on 69 occasions within this period.
• Average unplanned outages between February 13 and 19, 2026, measured 9,980MW, representing a significant reduction of 2,784MW compared to the same period last year.
• The Unplanned Capacity Loss Factor (UCLF) has decreased to 23.12% for the financial year to date.

Financial Impact and Operational Efficiency

Eskom's enhanced operational efficiency has also translated into substantial financial savings. The total diesel expenditure for the financial year to date (April 1, 2025, to February 19, 2026) is R5.49 billion lower than during the corresponding period last year. This reduction is a direct result of decreased reliance on costly diesel-powered generation, with diesel usage consistently declining month-on-month since May 2025.

Looking ahead, Eskom anticipates continued stability. The Summer Outlook, published on September 5, 2025, projects no load shedding from September 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026, a forecast based on sustained improvements in plant performance. Furthermore, Eskom plans to bring an additional 3,274MW of generation capacity online ahead of the evening peak on Monday, February 23, 2026, with a forecast evening peak demand of 23,405MW against an available capacity of 26,701MW.

Future Outlook and Economic Confidence

The sustained improvement in power reliability is reinforcing confidence in South Africa's broader economy and is seen as a crucial factor contributing to long-term energy security. This positive trend has also boosted business confidence, with the utility's recovery being a key element in positive sentiments regarding South Africa's GDP growth prospects.

In a further effort to enhance stability, Eskom is implementing a phased program aimed at eliminating load reduction by 2027. This initiative targets 971 feeders and is expected to benefit approximately 1.69 million customers across the country.