• Eskom brought Kusile Unit 6 into commercial operation, completing the construction of Kusile and Medupi for a combined 9,600 MW capacity.
• The project strengthens Eskom’s Generation Recovery Plan and reduces nationwide power cuts.
• Kusile became the first African power station to use wet flue gas desulfurization technology.

South Africa’s state utility Eskom has completed construction of the Kusile and Medupi coal-fired power plants, adding 9,600 megawatts to the grid and easing nationwide load-shedding.

Eskom announced on September 29 that Kusile Unit 6, with 800 MW capacity, entered commercial operation. The commissioning concludes the long-delayed Kusile and Medupi construction program, a central component of Eskom’s Generation Recovery Plan.

Although Kusile Unit 6 has supplied power since March, Eskom had not yet counted its output in the energy availability factor. Eskom CEO Dan Marokane said the on-schedule commercial start of Unit 6 reflects disciplined execution of the Generation Operational Recovery Plan, completing Kusile’s construction and reinforcing the utility’s focus on energy security, grid stability, and long-term infrastructure investment.

The company emphasized that Kusile is the first power station in Africa equipped with wet flue gas desulfurization technology, which aligns with international environmental standards.

The completion of Kusile and Medupi underlines coal’s enduring role in South Africa’s energy mix. Coal still accounts for about 80% of national electricity generation, even as renewable energy projects expand.

The government and private sector continue to invest in solar and wind capacity to gradually reduce emissions. Officials say these projects will complement coal-fired generation by providing additional security of supply.

This article was initially published in French by Abdoullah Diop

Adapted in English by Ange Jason Quenum