In a promising development for South Africa’s energy sector, the country is now “one step closer” to achieving a consistent electricity supply, thanks to the diligent and dedicated implementation of the Energy Action Plan (EAP). This announcement comes from Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, who briefed the media on the outcomes of the recent Cabinet meeting held on Wednesday.

South Africa has been grappling with intermittent load shedding for years, creating significant disruptions in daily life and the economy. However, the country has not experienced load shedding for more than 130 days, a remarkable achievement attributed to the steadfast efforts under the EAP, announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa in July 2022. The EAP has focused on planned maintenance and increasing energy security by bringing new generation capacity online. This concerted effort has resulted in a sustained period of consistent power supply, which has had a positive impact on the quality of life and economic activities.

Minister Ntshavheni emphasized the significance of this development, stating, “The supply of consistent electricity is now a step closer due to the steadfast implementation of the EAP announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa in July 2022. The EAP’s consistent focus on planned maintenance and work to achieve energy security by bringing onboard new generation capacity has contributed greatly to consistent power supply and no load shedding over several months. This is an important enabler for economic growth and has a positive impact on quality of life, allowing citizens to continue with their daily activities unhindered.”

The Minister further highlighted a historic milestone achieved by Eskom, the state-owned electricity public utility. By the end of July, Eskom had recorded an unplanned capability loss factor (UCLF) of 8321 MW, indicating a significant improvement in the reliability of its power stations. This milestone is a testament to the effective implementation of the EAP and the relentless efforts of Eskom’s workforce.

“Cabinet congratulated Eskom on achieving this important milestone and urged South Africans to continue adopting an energy-saving lifestyle to protect our national grid. By doing so, we all play our part in helping to keep the lights on, which is crucial to business, industry, and the economy,” Ntshavheni said. The call to action for energy conservation underscores the collective responsibility of citizens in maintaining the stability of the national grid.




The EAP is a comprehensive strategy designed to address the multifaceted challenges faced by South Africa's energy sector. It includes a variety of measures such as enhancing maintenance of existing infrastructure, investing in new generation capacity, and promoting renewable energy sources. The plan also aims to foster collaboration between governmental bodies, private sector stakeholders, and international partners to create a resilient and sustainable energy system.

As South Africa takes significant strides towards energy stability, the positive ripple effects on the economy are becoming increasingly evident. Consistent electricity supply is crucial for businesses, industries, and daily life. It enables uninterrupted operations, fostering economic growth and improving the overall standard of living. With the successful implementation of the EAP, South Africa is moving closer to a future where reliable electricity is a given rather than a luxury.

However, the journey is far from over. Continuous efforts and vigilance are required to maintain the momentum and ensure that the gains made thus far are not lost. The government’s commitment to the EAP and the ongoing support from citizens in adopting energy-saving practices will be pivotal in achieving long-term energy security.

In conclusion, South Africa's recent progress in achieving consistent electricity supply marks a significant milestone in the country’s energy journey. The diligent implementation of the Energy Action Plan, coupled with the dedicated efforts of Eskom and the support of South Africans, has brought the nation closer to a stable and reliable energy future. As Minister Ntshavheni aptly noted, this development is not just about keeping the lights on; it is about empowering the nation, driving economic growth, and enhancing the quality of life for all citizens.