In a landmark moment for South Africa’s energy sector, Eskom has confirmed that Unit 6 at the Kusile Power Station officially entered commercial operation on September 29, 2025. This marks the completion of the utility’s ambitious build program and unlocks a combined 9,600MW of reliable coal-fired power from Kusile and Medupi. For households across the country, the milestone signals brighter prospects for uninterrupted power supply this spring—potentially closing the chapter on years of frequent load shedding.
Kusile Unit 6: A Game-Changer for Eskom
Located in Mpumalanga, Kusile Power Station has long symbolized Eskom’s push for cleaner, more efficient supercritical coal technology. After years of construction delays, compliance hurdles, and pandemic disruptions, Unit 6—the final 800MW addition—has synchronized with the grid. This brings Kusile to its full 4,800MW design capacity, concluding an 11-year saga that saw costs rise above R160 billion, making it the most expensive coal plant ever built.
Eskom CEO Dan Marokane hailed the milestone as a “pivotal step in restoring energy security.” The new unit, equipped with advanced flue gas desulfurization systems, has passed rigorous testing to meet emissions standards. For consumers, this means more stable baseload power and a reduced risk of sudden blackouts.
Kusile + Medupi: 9,600MW at Full Throttle
With Kusile and Medupi now operating at full capacity, Eskom can deliver up to 9,600MW—about 15% of its total installed capacity of 46,000MW. Both plants, once plagued by reliability issues, are now showing an energy availability factor (EAF) above 70% in September 2025, a sharp recovery from previous years when it fell below 50%.
This boost is well-timed for spring, when household usage rises with air conditioning, pool pumps, and outdoor appliances. Analysts estimate it could cut as much as 2,000MW from peak demand pressure, especially benefiting urban hubs like Johannesburg and Cape Town.
Eskom’s Grid Upgrades: Building Resilience
Eskom is also strengthening its grid. The utility has returned 2,500MW through deferred maintenance at older plants like Majuba and Camden, while piloting battery energy storage systems and upgrading transmission lines to better integrate renewable sources. In 2025 alone, Eskom has synchronized over 4,800MW back into service, helping deliver 105 consecutive days without load shedding by late August.
Backed by the Just Energy Transition Partnership, these efforts aim to keep EAF above 70% through summer while paving the way for more solar and wind energy. The upgrades are critical for managing climate-related risks and ensuring long-term grid stability.
Brighter Days Ahead: Forecasts for Spring 2025
Eskom’s Summer Outlook (September 1, 2025 – March 31, 2026) predicts no load shedding—a dramatic turnaround from last year’s 13 days of power cuts. Unplanned breakdowns have been contained below 13,000MW, while private solar capacity has surged beyond 6,000MW. Since May 15, 2025, South Africa has enjoyed uninterrupted supply, with only 26 hours of load shedding between April and August—a 95% year-on-year improvement.
Electricity Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa declared, “We’re nearing the end of load shedding as we know it.” Still, Eskom warns that heatwaves or sudden plant failures could trigger “load reduction” during evening peaks (5–9 PM).
Experts Weigh In
Energy analyst Chris Yelland called the Kusile achievement “a major driver of Eskom’s improved performance,” noting that stable operation of Unit 6 will be key to sustaining progress. Ted Blom, chair of the South African National Energy Association, said the 9,600MW milestone could end chronic blackouts but stressed the need to accelerate renewables toward 20GW by 2030. Both experts agree: coal may deliver short-term stability, but long-term security depends on diversifying the energy mix.
Household Energy Tips: Save Money This Spring
Even with improved supply, higher tariffs loom—Eskom has proposed a 36% increase for 2025. Simple efficiency steps can help households cut costs:
- Switch to efficiency: Use LEDs and energy-rated appliances—geysers and fridges make up 40% of household draw.
- Shift usage: Run washing machines and dishwashers outside of peak hours (before 7 AM or after 9 PM).
- Unplug devices: Chargers and standby electronics can add 10% to your bill.
- Cool smartly: Ceiling fans save 3–5% on energy for every degree higher your AC is set.
- Add solar: Small rooftop systems or inverters can trim bills—government rebates make it more affordable.
These measures could save households 20–30% on monthly bills, according to Eskom’s own guidelines.
A Spring of Stability
Kusile’s final unit signals more than just added megawatts—it marks renewed confidence in South Africa’s energy system. With 9,600MW bolstering the grid, load shedding in retreat, and continued investment in upgrades, this spring promises steadier evenings under the lights. The path forward, however, lies in balancing coal’s short-term reliability with renewable growth to secure the country’s long-term energy future.