Eskom is promising a stable power grid this winter, but it’s coming at a price that many South Africans simply can’t afford.
According to Eskom’s latest forecast, load shedding could be avoided through winter 2025, if unplanned outages stay low. But even with fewer blackouts, the real burden is shifting: sky-high electricity tariffs are becoming the new crisis.
The power utility has shown modest improvement in grid reliability, but for most households and businesses, “no load shedding” doesn’t mean much if you still can’t afford to keep the lights (or heaters) on.
Eskom’s Grid: One Fault Away from Blackouts
Eskom’s data shows that unplanned breakdowns averaged around 12.5GW over summer, slightly better than anticipated. For winter, the forecast has been revised to between 13GW and 15GW. If outages stay under 13GW, we’re likely safe. But if they reach 15GW, expect up to 21 days of stage 2 load shedding.
In other words, we’re walking a tightrope. A sudden cold snap or a major plant failure could still push the grid past its limit.
Electricity Tariffs Continue to Climb
At the same time, electricity prices are surging. From April 1, Eskom direct customers were hit with a 12.7% increase. Municipal customers will see an 11.3% jump from July 1, right in the middle of winter.
This is a huge blow for households already dealing with a rising cost of living. And it could even backfire on Eskom, as some consumers may reduce usage or fall into non-payment, while others turn to illegal connections just to stay afloat.
The Shift to Solar: From Option to Necessity
Faced with this financial pressure, more South Africans are looking beyond the grid, and turning to solar. Demand for solar power systems has exploded, and for good reason: they offer energy independence, predictable costs, and peace of mind.
Alumo Energy, one of South Africa’s trusted solar solution providers, has seen an unprecedented spike in interest. Many homeowners say the recent tariff hikes were the final straw. One solar quote later, and they were ready to invest.
But the Red Tape Is Still Holding People Back
Unfortunately, while demand for solar power systems rises, bureaucracy hasn’t kept pace. South Africa’s small-scale embedded generation (SSEG) rules vary wildly across municipalities. Some towns have no system at all for registering residential solar setups, while others are bogged down in paperwork and long waits.
This fragmented approach is creating unnecessary barriers. It’s discouraging homeowners who are trying to do the right thing, legally and sustainably.
It’s Time to Rethink the Energy Future
South Africans aren’t abandoning the grid out of rebellion. They’re doing it out of necessity, because load shedding, rising costs, and policy uncertainty have made the status quo unworkable.
Companies like Alumo are helping to bridge the gap. With expert support, customized designs, and fast solar quotes, Alumo Energy is making it easier for households to make the switch, despite the red tape.
As a country, we need to support this momentum, not stall it. Simplifying the process for legal solar installation is a win for everyone, consumers, the grid, and the planet.
Want to Cut Your Energy Bill and Ditch the Uncertainty?
Start your solar journey today with Alumo Energy. Get a free solar quote, expert advice, and a team that understands the unique challenges South Africans face.