“Eskom has achieved a 67.24% Energy Availability Factor (EAF) for the financial year to date, the highest since 2020, reflecting major operational improvements across its coal fleet. This progress has reduced unplanned outages by 28.3% year-on-year, bolstering electricity supply stability and reinforcing South Africa’s energy security.”
South Africa’s energy sector has long been plagued by instability, rolling blackouts, and heavy reliance on diesel generation. However, Eskom’s latest performance data signals a significant turnaround. The utility has reported its strongest Energy Availability Factor (EAF) in six years, a milestone that could reshape the country’s energy landscape and restore confidence in its power supply.
Eskom’s Performance Milestone
- EAF at 67.24%: Up from 60.05% last year, representing a 7.19% improvement.
- Coal fleet reliability: Over 85% of coal-fired units are operating at EAF levels between 70% and 92%.
- Capacity restored: Approximately 5.9 GW of generating capacity has been returned to the grid.
This achievement is the result of Eskom’s Generation Recovery Plan, which focused on reducing unplanned outages, improving maintenance schedules, and strengthening operational resilience.
Reduction in Outages
Between July 31 and August 6, 2026:
- Unplanned outages fell to 7,718 MW, down from 10,758 MW in the same period last year.
- This represents a 28.3% reduction, equivalent to the output of a major power station such as Tutuka.
- The Unplanned Capacity Loss Factor (UCLF) improved to 16.12% from 22.60% last year.
Diesel Dependence Declines
Historically, Eskom relied heavily on diesel to stabilize the grid during peak demand. In 2025, diesel expenditure exceeded R5.7 billion. This year, spending has dropped to R948 million, reflecting reduced reliance on emergency generation.
Cold Reserve and System Adequacy
Eskom currently maintains 3,360 MW in cold reserve, providing assurance of system adequacy and enabling the utility to meet winter demand without resorting to excessive diesel use. This buffer strengthens resilience against unexpected demand spikes.
Economic and Social Impact
Reliable electricity supply is critical for:
- Industrial productivity: Mining, manufacturing, and agriculture sectors benefit from reduced disruptions.
- Households: Fewer blackouts improve quality of life and reduce reliance on costly backup solutions.
- Financial stability: Lower diesel costs ease Eskom’s financial burden, potentially reducing tariff pressures on consumers.
Transition Toward Sustainability
While Eskom’s coal fleet remains central to current improvements, South Africa’s broader energy strategy emphasizes diversification:
- Expansion of renewables (wind, solar, battery storage).
- Integration of gas and nuclear into the energy mix.
- Private sector investment in green energy projects, such as the Ummbila Emoyeni wind farm in Mpumalanga, which will eventually deliver 900 MW of hybrid renewable capacity.
Government and Policy Support
President Cyril Ramaphosa has highlighted the importance of balancing coal’s legacy role with renewable expansion. The 2025 Integrated Resource Plan aims to achieve a diversified portfolio, reducing coal’s share while accelerating renewable adoption.
Risks and Challenges Ahead
Despite progress, challenges remain:
- Aging infrastructure: Many coal plants are decades old and require ongoing investment.
- Financial strain: Eskom’s debt burden continues to weigh on its long-term sustainability.
- Transition pressures: Balancing coal jobs with renewable expansion is politically sensitive.
- Grid modernization: Integrating new renewable projects requires transmission upgrades.
Conclusion
Eskom’s record EAF performance represents a critical turning point for South Africa’s energy sector. By reducing outages, cutting diesel reliance, and restoring capacity, Eskom has strengthened reliability and laid the groundwork for a more sustainable energy future. Yet, the path forward requires balancing coal’s stabilizing role with the urgent need to expand renewables, modernize infrastructure, and ensure financial sustainability.
