Eskom has just flipped the switch on a significant piece of South Africa’s energy future. The utility has successfully added the final 800MW unit of the Kusile power station, Unit 6, to the national grid. This isn’t just a power plant coming online; it’s a milestone in Eskom’s ambitious strategy to bolster the country’s electricity supply. By March 2025, Eskom aims to add a total of 2.5GW of new capacity, and Kusile Unit 6 is a substantial step towards that goal.
But the story doesn’t end with the flick of a switch. Over the next year, Unit 6 will undergo rigorous testing and optimisation. It’s a process that’s as crucial as it is complex, ensuring that the unit can operate at peak efficiency and reliability. This phase is about more than just power; it’s about proving that South Africa’s energy infrastructure can evolve and adapt.
While Kusile Unit 6 takes centre stage, Eskom’s sister project, Medupi, is also making strides. By April 2025, Medupi’s Unit 4 is set to return 800MW to the grid after an extended outage. This isn’t just about recovering lost capacity; it’s about demonstrating resilience and adaptability in the face of challenges.
Eskom Group CEO Dan Marokane doesn’t mince words. “Kusile Unit 6’s addition is proof that we are making continued progress in stabilising and strengthening South Africa’s electricity supply.” He’s clear about the stakes: meeting targets, enhancing generation performance, supporting economic growth, and delivering a sustainable energy future. Marokane is unequivocal about Eskom’s commitment to avoiding a return to the severe load-shedding of 2023. It’s a bold statement, but it’s backed by action.
The Kusile power station is set to be a game-changer. With all units in operation, it will contribute 4.8GW, making it South Africa’s largest infrastructure project. But it’s not just about size; it’s about innovation. Kusile is the first power plant in the country to implement wet flue gas desulphurisation technology, setting new standards for air quality.
Eskom Group executive for generation Bheki Nxumalo acknowledges the challenges but also the progress. “Eskom is at a critical point returning megawatts to the grid.” He’s right. This milestone is a testament to the dedication and resilience of Eskom’s employees and contractors. It’s a reminder that behind every megawatt, there’s a team pushing boundaries and overcoming obstacles.
But Eskom isn’t resting on its laurels. The utility remains committed to its Generation Operational Recovery Plan, focusing on governance and sustainability. In January 2025, Eskom connected the 930MW Unit 2 of the Koeberg nuclear power station to the national grid. This connection is part of a long-term operation programme to extend the unit’s life by 20 years, following similar upgrades to Unit 1. It’s a clear signal that Eskom is thinking long-term, not just about immediate gains, but about sustained, reliable energy security.
This news isn’t just about a power plant coming online. It’s about a shift in South Africa’s energy landscape. It’s about proving that despite challenges, progress is possible. It’s about setting new standards, pushing boundaries, and driving innovation. It’s about more than just power; it’s about a sustainable, resilient energy future. And Eskom is at the helm, steering South Africa towards that future.
