Eskom slashes diesel costs by R4.88 billion as South Africa's grid stabilises
Power utility Eskom says South Africa’s electricity system is becoming more stable, with the use of costly diesel generators falling sharply.
Image: File
Power utility Eskom says South Africa’s electricity system is becoming more stable, with the use of costly diesel generators having fallen sharply.
According to Eskom, year-to-date spending on diesel is nearly R4.88 billion less than during the same period last year. Between April 1, 2025, and February 12, 2026, the company used diesel generators to produce 1,049.7 GWh of electricity for R6.231 billion, compared with 1,825.2 GWh at R11.109 billion during the equivalent period in 2025
South Africa has now enjoyed 277 consecutive days without interruptions to the national grid, with only 26 hours of loadshedding recorded in April and May 2025.
Eskom said these gains are part of the ongoing Generation Recovery Plan, which aims to restore fleet reliability, strengthen operational stability, and cut operating costs.
"Year to date (1 April 2025 until 12 February 2026), total diesel expenditure is now R4.88 billion lower than at the same time last year, reflecting substantial cost savings and continued improvements in operational performance driven by Eskom’s turnaround initiatives," the utility said.
"Overall, this trend highlights the growing stability, efficiency, and resilience of the power system. Year-to-date, diesel expenditure remains consistently below budget. South Africa has now experienced 273 consecutive days without an interruption in supply, with only 26 hours of loadshedding recorded in April and May 2025, during this financial year."
mthobisi.nozulela@iol.co.za
IOL Business