Load Shedding Returns: South Africa Faces Power Cuts Again

The possibility of renewed power outages in South Africa, known as load-shedding, is gaining traction as concerns mount over the long-term stability of the national grid. Even as Eskom, the state-owned electricity provider, currently reports no active load-shedding as of March 1, 2026, recent analysis suggests a return to rotational power cuts could occur as early as 2029.

Eskom’s Current Position and Recent Improvements

Currently, Eskom is experiencing a period of relative stability. According to reports, power generation breakdowns are lower than previously projected in its winter outlook. This improvement coincides with a significant shift in the functionality of EskomSePush (ESP), the popular app initially designed to inform users about load-shedding schedules. ESP has evolved into a community platform, offering localized chats, outage reporting, and neighborhood-level insights. This transition reflects a substantial decrease in the frequency of power disruptions. In 2025, South Africa experienced only eight days of load-shedding, a dramatic improvement compared to the 68 days in 2024 and the 284 days in 2023.

However, the founders of ESP, Herman Maritz and Dan Southwood-Wells, emphasize that the app’s redesign wasn’t based on an expectation of a permanent end to outages. Maritz explained that the company didn’t “set out to build a tool that depends on South Africa suffering.” The launch of ESP Version 5 restructured the app around specific suburbs and areas, aiming to foster a sense of community and facilitate the sharing of information.

The MyEskom Customer App and Enhanced Control

Eskom is also attempting to improve customer experience through the MyEskom Customer App. This app provides users with greater control over their accounts, allowing them to check balances, submit meter readings, log and track service requests, and report power loss faults. The goal is to reduce administrative burdens and ensure accurate billing, with users able to submit meter readings directly from their mobile devices. This move towards digital self-service is a common trend among utilities globally, aiming to improve efficiency and customer satisfaction.

The Looming Threat of Renewed Load-Shedding

Despite these positive developments, Thomas Garner, director of Synthesis Power Solutions and an energy expert, warns that the respite may be temporary. Garner predicts a return to load-shedding by 2029, citing a combination of factors impacting South Africa’s power infrastructure. While the specific details of Garner’s analysis aren’t fully detailed in the initial reporting, the prediction raises concerns about the sustainability of the current improvements. Eskom’s own website currently states they are “NOT LOAD SHEDDING” but acknowledges the possibility due to high demand or necessary maintenance.

Dynamic Adjustments and Shifting Schedules

Eskom is also implementing dynamic adjustments to its load-shedding block rotations. This means users who previously relied on fixed schedules may experience changes to when their power is cut. Details regarding these adjustments are available through ESP Chats, providing a platform for users to discuss the implications. This shift towards dynamic scheduling reflects Eskom’s attempt to optimize the use of available power and respond to real-time grid conditions. However, it also introduces uncertainty for consumers, and businesses.

The Broader Context: Corruption and Dysfunction

The current relative stability at Eskom doesn’t erase the history of challenges that have plagued the utility. Reports have detailed significant issues with corruption and dysfunction within the organization, which have contributed to years of unreliable power supply. While the current leadership appears to be making progress in addressing these issues, the legacy of past mismanagement continues to pose a risk. The ongoing efforts to improve Eskom’s performance are crucial not only for the South African economy but also for investor confidence.

Impact on Businesses and Consumers

The potential return of load-shedding has significant implications for businesses and consumers. For businesses, particularly those reliant on continuous power supply, load-shedding can lead to production disruptions, increased costs (due to backup power solutions like generators), and lost revenue. Consumers face inconvenience, potential damage to appliances, and increased electricity bills. The uncertainty surrounding the power supply also discourages investment and hinders economic growth.

The Role of EskomSePush in a Changing Landscape

The evolution of EskomSePush from a simple load-shedding notification app to a community platform highlights a broader trend: the increasing reliance on citizen-led initiatives to address service delivery failures. While Eskom is attempting to improve its own communication and customer service, the success of ESP demonstrates the demand for localized information and community support. This shift also reflects a growing sense of distrust in state-owned enterprises and a desire for greater transparency and accountability.

What to Expect in the Coming Years

The next few years will be critical for Eskom and South Africa’s power sector. The utility’s ability to maintain the current improvements in power generation, address the underlying issues of corruption and dysfunction, and invest in new capacity will determine whether the country can avoid a return to widespread load-shedding. Monitoring Eskom’s operational performance, particularly during peak demand periods, will be crucial. The implementation of dynamic load-shedding schedules and the effectiveness of the MyEskom Customer App will be key indicators of the utility’s progress. The continued evolution of platforms like EskomSePush will also play a role in providing consumers and businesses with the information they need to navigate a potentially unstable power supply.