Eskom to implement a 14-hour power outage in parts of Tshwane

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Eskom will interrupt power supply to parts of Tshwane on Thursday, 15 May, due to emergency maintenance on its distribution network. The planned power outage will last for 14 hours, from 9:00 to 23:00. It will impact customers in the Cullinan area, including the Council for Geoscience, National Library, Donkerhoek plots, Galagos Country Estate, Kleinfontein, and Rhenosterfontein plots.

“The interruption in electricity supply is necessary to perform essential emergency maintenance on our distribution power lines,” Eskom confirmed in a notice on Friday.

The utility advised all affected customers to treat electrical appliances as live for safety during the outage.

Eskom: Grid stability remains intact despite maintenance

Eskom reassured the public that the power system remains stable. From 1 April to 8 May, the Unplanned Capacity Loss Factor (UCLF) dropped to 27.99%—a 1.2% improvement compared to last year. Additionally, planned maintenance activities have increased to 6 904MW, or 14.76% of total generation capacity.

“The power system remains stable, supported by adequate emergency reserves that are strategically deployed when necessary to manage periods of high winter peak demand,” the utility said.

Eskom also reported a slight increase in its Open-Cycle Gas Turbine (OCGT) usage—rising from 3.78% to 3.87% in early May—but noted that diesel reliance is declining.

Winter Outlook shows improved performance

According to Eskom’s Winter Outlook on 5 May, the utility does not expect load shedding if unplanned power outages stay below 13 000MW. Even if breakdowns increase to 15 000MW, Eskom estimates Stage 2 load shedding would only be implemented for 21 out of 153 winter days, a significant improvement compared to last year’s projections of Stage 5.

To support this outlook, Eskom plans to return 2 970MW to service before the evening peak on Monday, 12 May. This additional capacity is expected to ease pressure on the grid during winter.