Eskom’s Kusile Unit 5 Adds 800MW to Grid, Achieves 90 Days of Uninterrupted Supply

Dan Marokane, Eskom Group Chief Executive, highlighted that this achievement is a significant part of the utility's Generation Operational Recovery Plan.

Eskom's Kusile Unit 5 has officially achieved commercial operation, contributing an additional 800MW to South Africa's power grid. This milestone comes as Eskom celebrates 90 days of uninterrupted electricity supply.

Dan Marokane, Eskom Group Chief Executive, highlighted that this achievement is a significant part of the utility's Generation Operational Recovery Plan. “In our winter outlook, we committed to adding new generation capacity to the grid, and Kusile Power Station Unit 5 is a key element of this effort. By the end of this year, we plan to add a total of 2500MW,” said Marokane. “Our focus remains on operational recovery, governance strengthening, and future-proofing Eskom to ensure energy security and sustainability for South Africa and sub-Saharan Africa.”

Located in Mpumalanga, Kusile Power Station's Unit 5 was first synchronized to the grid in December 2023. Now operational, it increases Kusile's total output to 4000MW. Bheki Nxumalo, Eskom’s Group Executive for Generation, praised the collective effort of Eskom's 40,000 employees. “This success exemplifies what we can achieve together. I thank all Eskom employees and contractors for their hard work in bringing this unit online,” said Nxumalo.

Eskom noted that Unit 5 has met performance expectations since synchronization, supporting the grid and helping to mitigate load shedding. Kusile Power Station, upon full completion, will consist of six units with a combined output of 4800MW. It is also the first power station in Africa to utilize wet flue gas desulphurization (WFGD) technology, reducing sulfur dioxide emissions to comply with international air quality standards.

The construction of Kusile Unit 6 is progressing on schedule, with synchronization to the grid expected in November 2024.