ILLEGAL CONNECTIONS THREATEN GRID STABILITY, WARNS ESKOM

Mon 09 June 2025:

Eskom has called on communities to stop illegal connections and energy theft as South Africa heads into a week of severe winter conditions.

The power utility warned that these activities often lead to transformer overloads, equipment failures and, in some cases, explosions and extended outages—forcing Eskom to implement load reduction to protect the network.

“To help maintain a stable electricity supply this winter, customers are encouraged to purchase electricity only from Eskom-accredited vendors and take responsibility by regularising their electricity usage,” the utility said.

“Eligible households are encouraged to register for free basic electricity with their local municipalities.”

Eskom also encouraged customers to use electricity sparingly throughout winter, particularly during morning and evening peak periods.

Power Boost Expected Ahead of Evening Peak

The utility said it expects to return 2,550MW of generation capacity to the grid by Monday evening as part of efforts to stabilise supply.

This comes as Eskom continues to taper down its maintenance season, with the Energy Availability Factor “fluctuating between 61% and 64%” last week.

“While system constraints are occasionally experienced, adequate emergency reserves are in place and are being strategically deployed to support demand during the morning and evening peak periods, particularly as the country prepares for a forecasted cold spell in the coming week.”

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Medupi Update and Winter Outlook

Eskom confirmed that Medupi Unit 4 is in the final phase of recovery following damage in 2021. The utility said diesel usage is expected to decline further as more units return from long-term repairs.

“Commissioning activities are currently underway, and Grid Code compliance testing is expected to resume in the coming week. The unit is anticipated to return to service within June 2025.”

According to Eskom’s Winter Outlook, load shedding will not be necessary if unplanned outages remain below 13,000 MW. If they rise to 15,000MW, load shedding will be limited to a maximum of 21 days and restricted to Stage 2.

written by Thaabit Kamaar

This article originally published in Salaamedia click here