Eskom, South Africa’s state-owned electricity public utility, announced the suspension of loadshedding at 05:00 on 20 March 2025, following a recovery in generation capacity and the replenishment of emergency reserves.
The utility had implemented Stage 2 loadshedding on the evening of 19 March 2025 due to the unexpected loss of five generating units, including two from the Cahora Bassa hydroelectric facility in Mozambique. This measure was necessary to stabilise the national grid during peak demand periods.
Overnight efforts led to the swift restoration of four of the five affected units, supplemented by the return of two additional units from prior outages, collectively adding approximately 3,000MW back to the grid. An additional 720MW was restored following the suspension of loadshedding, with plans to reintegrate a further 2,120MW over the upcoming long weekend to enhance grid stability.
Dan Marokane, Eskom’s Group Chief Executive, acknowledged the challenges faced, stating, “The loss of five units prior to and during the evening peak yesterday introduced a generation capacity shortage within the peak period that unfortunately could not be replaced otherwise.” He reiterated Eskom’s commitment to avoiding a return to the severe levels of loadshedding experienced in 2023 and emphasised the focus on delivering a more reliable, resilient, and sustainable power system for the country.
Eskom continues to conduct high levels of planned maintenance, averaging 7,032MW in February, as part of efforts to improve fleet reliability in preparation for the high winter demand while also meeting environmental licence conditions and regulatory requirements. The utility has also reported significant year-on-year diesel savings amounting to R16.69 billion, attributed to the reduced reliance on open-cycle gas turbines due to improved generation capacity.
Eskom’s Summer Outlook, published on 26 August 2024, remains unchanged, reflecting the utility’s ongoing efforts to maintain a stable power supply. The public is encouraged to continue using electricity sparingly to support the stability of the national grid. Eskom will provide further updates as necessary.
