Final unit at Kusile goes live, completing Eskom’s supercritical power build

Eskom has announced the successful commercial operation of Unit 6 at Kusile Power Station, an achievement that signifies the culmination of its extensive Build Programme. 

With the entry of Unit 6 into commercial service, Eskom expects to enhance the country’s baseload electricity supply significantly.

The combined output from Kusile and Medupi now has the capacity to deliver a remarkable 9,600MW when both stations are fully operational, representing a substantial boost to South Africa’s electricity grid.

Although Unit 6 has been supplying power to the grid since its synchronicity on 23 March 2025, its formal output has not been included in official figures until now.

With this recent confirmation, Unit 6’s contributions will be integrated into Eskom’s Energy Availability Factor (EAF) calculations, providing a clearer picture of the utility’s performance metrics.

“The successful commissioning of Unit 6 adds 800MW to the grid and completes our twelve-unit Megaprojects fleet. We extend our gratitude to employees and contractors for their commitment and perseverance in delivering this milestone.

"Despite the many challenges along the way, the successful handover of Unit 6 reflects the team’s resilience and dedication. We look forward to the added stability these megawatts will bring,” said Bheki Nxumalo, Eskom Group Executive for Generation.

Group Chief Executive Dan Marokane emphasised the significance of this milestone: “Achieving commercial operation of Unit 6 within the planned timeframe is a testament to Eskom’s disciplined execution of the Generation Operational Recovery Plan.

"This milestone not only completes the Kusile build programme but also reinforces Eskom’s commitment to restoring energy security, enhancing grid stability, and investing in infrastructure that supports South Africa’s long-term economic growth.”

Since its synchronicity, Unit 6 has demonstrated reliability, meeting performance benchmarks and contributing to electricity demand 97% of the time. Marokane noted that both Medupi and Kusile stations are designed for an operational life of roughly fifty years, ensuring they will play a vital role in South Africa’s energy future.

In addition to bolstering electricity supply, Kusile Power Station proudly stands as the first facility in South Africa—and on the African continent—to implement Wet Flue Gas Desulphurisation (WFGD) technology, which aligns with global standards aimed at minimising sulphur dioxide emissions and ensuring compliance with air quality regulations.

IOL