Eskom Announces 14-Hour Power Outage in Parts of Tshwane for Critical Maintenance

Eskom is set to conduct a 14-hour power outage in parts of Tshwane on 15 May 2025 to carry out emergency maintenance on its distribution network. The outage will commence at 9:00 AM and end at 11:00 PM, affecting several areas, including Cullinan, Donkerhoek plots, Galagos Country Estate, Kleinfontein, and Rhenosterfontein plots.

According to Eskom, the scheduled power interruption is essential for conducting urgent repairs and maintenance to ensure the stability and reliability of the electricity grid. In a statement released on 9 May 2025, Eskom emphasized that the maintenance work is critical for preventing potential power failures in the affected areas.

Areas Affected by the Power Outage in Tshwane

The following areas in Tshwane will experience power interruptions during the 14-hour maintenance period:

Cullinan – including residential and business districts.
Council for Geoscience – operational disruptions expected.
National Library – potential service interruptions.
Donkerhoek plots – residential and agricultural areas.
Galagos Country Estate – potential impact on hospitality services.
Kleinfontein – power-dependent operations may be affected.
Rhenosterfontein plots – residents advised to plan accordingly.

Safety Advisory During the Power Outage

Eskom has advised all affected residents and businesses to treat all electrical appliances as live during the outage. This precaution is necessary to prevent accidents or electrical hazards when the power is restored. Additionally, Eskom urges customers to switch off high-power appliances to avoid potential surges when electricity is reconnected.

Eskom Maintains Grid Stability Despite Increased Maintenance

Despite the extended power outage, Eskom has assured the public that the national power grid remains stable. The utility reported a 1.2% reduction in the Unplanned Capacity Loss Factor (UCLF) from 1 April to 8 May, bringing it down to 27.99%.

Additionally, planned maintenance activities have increased to 6 904MW, representing 14.76% of the total generation capacity. Eskom noted that these strategic maintenance efforts are crucial for managing the expected surge in electricity demand during the winter months.

Increased Gas Turbine Usage Amid Maintenance Work

Eskom also reported a slight uptick in the usage of its Open-Cycle Gas Turbines (OCGTs), with usage rising from 3.78% to 3.87% in early May. Despite the increase, the utility emphasized that its reliance on diesel for power generation is gradually decreasing, reducing operational costs and stabilizing the grid.

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Winter Power Outlook: Improved Performance Expected

According to Eskom’s Winter Outlook report released on 5 May, the utility does not anticipate significant load shedding if unplanned outages remain below 13 000MW. However, if breakdowns escalate to 15 000MW, Eskom projects that Stage 2 load shedding may be implemented for only 21 out of 153 winter days, a notable improvement from last year’s forecast of Stage 5 load shedding.

To further strengthen grid stability, Eskom plans to return 2 970MW to service before the evening peak on 12 May, aiming to alleviate pressure on the power system and reduce the likelihood of load shedding during high-demand periods.