Eskom's board has announced its top priorities regarding the stablisation of the system and an end to load shedding.

Speaking at a virtual media briefing on Thursday 2 February 2023, board member Mteto Nyanti spelled out the power utility board's top five priorities to stabilise the system and end load shedding. He assured the public that managers are looking at the problem with a sense of urgency.

Generation recovery plan

The utility's generation recovery plan will take about 24 months, Nyati said. Management will ensure that the four best-performing power stations in Eskom's fleet continue to operate reliably, while those power stations which are 'troublesome' will receive greater focus to get them operational as quickly as possible.

Planned and unplanned outages

Nyati said that work at Koeberg Unit 1 is going ahead according to plan and he does not expect its return-to-service being delayed at this point.

Other work at Koeberg - unplanned outages at what he referred to as "Koeberg 1, 2 and 3" - would be complete "in about a year from now", although management is focused on accelerating the return-to-service where possible.

People and culture

Nyati said that the board seeks to 'look after' the many faithful employees ho work diligently and are dedicated to the power utility and to the country in keeping the area under their control operating properly. This could include some form of incentive, he added.

Fund raising

The power utility's financial situation is concerning since the cost of running the diesel-powered open cycle gas turbines to supply much-needed extra electricity is critical, Nyati said. The board will look at various options to raise funds for the power utility.

Government enabling

The board is in discussion with Government to obtain additional generation capacity as quickly as possible, he added.

Click here to watch the full briefing