Power utility Eskom says that its diesel spending fell by more than 85% in the first two and a half months of the current financial year
Image: SA Government News Agency
Power utility Eskom says its diesel spending fell by more than 85% in the first two and a half months of the current financial year, as improved generation performance reduced the need to use diesel-powered turbines.
The utility said it spent R640.27 million on diesel between April 1 and June 18, 2026, compared with R4.515 billion during the same period last year.
Eskom said the reduction in diesel use was supported by improved power station performance, lower unplanned outages, and increased electricity availability across its generation fleet.
“For the financial year to date (1 April to 18 June 2026), diesel expenditure stands at R640.27 million at a load factor of 1.30% for the Open Cycle Gas Turbines (OCGTs), significantly lower than the R4.515 billion incurred over the same period last year at a load factor of 11.94%, an 89.09% year-on-year reduction and a diesel expenditure reduction of 85.82%,” the utility said.
“Diesel in the past week was strategically deployed at peak demand times to meet higher-than-expected demand, as well as to provide the required reserves in line with the South African Grid Code.”
The utility added that “this continued reduction demonstrates both the cost savings and the operational improvements achieved through Eskom’s ongoing turnaround efforts.”
“Overall, this positive trend highlights the growing stability and efficiency of the power system. Since 16 May 2025, South Africa has recorded 399 consecutive days without interruptions to electricity supply, reflecting 100% system availability in meeting electricity demand.”
“During the previous financial year, supply interruptions were limited to 26 hours across four days in April and May 2025, underscoring the improved strength and reliability of the power system. To further ensure a stable electricity supply, Eskom will bring 3 223MW of generation capacity online ahead of the evening peak on Monday, 22 June 2026. Today’s evening peak demand is forecast at 26 387MW, with 31 533MW of available capacity.”
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