Six of Eskom’s coal-fired power stations reach an energy availability factor of 70%

ESKOM says there have been notable gradual improvements in its power generation fleet.

Over the past week, six coal-fired power stations achieved an energy availability factor (EAF) of 70%, a milestone last achieved on May 8, 2022, the electricity supplier said.

Three of these power stations, Camden, Duvha and Matla, have been on a sustained upward trend as a result of a reduction in plant breakdowns and the return to service of a number of units that were on unplanned breakdowns.

Lethabo, Matimba and Medupi have been experiencing continued good performance and remain among Eskom’s three best-performing stations. In addition, Lethabo was able to sustain performance after a quick recovery following a wet coal incident experienced last week, due to flooding after excessive rainfall.

“While this is still early progress, it shows a positive trajectory from actions taken to recover Eskom generation plants. This is consistent with Eskom’s target to achieve 70% EAF by the 2025 financial year,” said acting CEO Calib Cassim.

Eskom board chairperson Mpho Makwana said the improvement in performance at Camden, Duvvha and Matla, as well as the sustained commendable performance at Lethabo, Matimba and Medupi gives assurance that if they continue to apply an all-hands-on-deck approach they would continue to improve the energy availability.

“I specifically commend the various teams at these power stations for the great work and also applaud all the Eskom employees for their continued hard work and dedication,” he said.

IOL