Well, credit where credit is due, Eskom has set a new load-shedding record for 2024. And this time it's a good record. Listen, we at The South African are the first to hold Eskom to account for its poor service delivery. We'll be the first to let you know when your load shedding schedule worsens (or improves).
However, we are not the kind of people who simply rejoice over the misfortunes of state-owned enterprises. Now, when you put your back against the wall and somehow get back up, it takes tremendous effort and courage. And for that we would like to express our gratitude…
Load reduction record in 2024
today (Wednesday, April 17, 2024) represents twenty one Days without unloading in Mzansi. As we reported last week, his longest run to date without load reduction was 19 days. So yesterday was actually the “first” new record (20th).The previous record was set on Friday, December 15, 2023 (Rugby World Cup holiday). Tweed Nuwe Jaa Tuesday, January 2, 2024.
Now, Eskom's load reduction record for 2024 is: Thursday, March 28th Despite severe weather conditions across the country (just before the Easter long weekend) and numerous external challenges to power supply, it continued on. What this author is definitely wondering is how long Eskom can maintain this good run.
more power generation capacity
Skeptics say the 2024 load reduction record is all a smokescreen for the ANC ahead of the 2024 general election. In response, we insist that the ruling party must continue to smoke. Regardless of the reason, it is absolutely necessary to keep it powered on. The positivity is almost immeasurable compared to the literal dark days of 2023 that South Africa endured. 332 Days of load reduction.
Minister of Power Kgosiensho Ramokgopa maintained and improved management towards the 2024 load shedding record. Crucial to this performance is that Medupi returned earlier than expected. Initially he was scheduled to return online only in 2025. And Eskom says this has created an even bigger problem. 25,000MW capacity to the grid.
How long will the streak last?
“These improvements we're seeing aren't a coincidence, they're investments by talented men and women. But if all of a sudden there's a load reduction tomorrow, that doesn't mean the trend is gone.” Ramokgopa concluded.
Let’s count the days until Eskom can continue this winning streak…
Read next: SASSA grant payment schedule for May 2024 (and beyond)
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