Minister Ramokgopa Invites Applications for Eskom Board Positions

2025-07-03

Minister of Electricity and Energy Dr. Kgosientsho Ramokgopa has issued a formal invitation for qualified individuals to apply for positions as Non-Executive Directors on the Eskom Board.

Call for New Board Members

In a media statement released on Thursday, July 3rd, 2025, the Ministry announced it is seeking candidates with extensive qualifications and experience to help steer South Africa's primary electricity provider. The call comes as Eskom continues its operational recovery following the extended period without loadshedding that began in March 2024.

The Ministry emphasized that Eskom's mandate remains focused on "providing electricity in an efficient and sustainable manner" while contributing to the South African economy and improving quality of life nationwide.

Required Expertise and Qualifications

The invitation specifically targets professionals with executive-level experience, particularly in the energy sector. Candidates should possess expertise in one or more of the following areas:

• Energy and power generation (including renewables, wind, solar, hydro, nuclear, coal, and gas)
• Corporate finance, funding, and capital allocation
• Digital transformation and information technology
• Legal, compliance, and governance
• Human capital and change management
• Climate change and economics
• Engineering, infrastructure, and project management
• Operations, maintenance, and health and safety

This broad range of required competencies reflects the complex challenges Eskom continues to face as it works to maintain grid stability while transitioning toward a more sustainable energy mix.

Application Requirements

Interested candidates must submit comprehensive applications including:

• A detailed cover letter with personal information
• A curriculum vitae highlighting relevant experience
• Copies of South African identity document and qualifications
• Disclosure of current or potential conflicts of interest
• Information about any criminal records, legal proceedings, or disqualifications

The Ministry noted that applicants will be subject to security clearance, and preference will be given to candidates whose appointment enhances representativity. All appointments are subject to Cabinet approval.

Outlook

The board renewal comes at a critical juncture for Eskom. While the utility has maintained a largely loadshedding-free period since March 2024, challenges remain. The Energy Availability Factor (EAF) currently stands at 56.36%, down slightly from 58.05%, and still below the targeted 70% for winter 2025.

The incoming board members will likely play crucial roles in several strategic areas, including the ongoing unbundling of Generation and Distribution units, integration of renewable energy sources, and addressing persistent municipal debt issues which currently exceed R90 billion.

Applications close on July 18th, 2025, and should be emailed to EskomBoard@energy.gov.za. Enquiries can be directed to Mr. M. Msimang at (012) 406 7631 or via email to M.Msimang@energy.gov.za.

Key Terms Explained

• Non-Executive Directors: Board members who provide oversight and guidance but aren't involved in day-to-day operations of Eskom.
• EAF (Energy Availability Factor): The percentage of Eskom's total generation capacity that is available for use. Higher percentages indicate better plant performance.
• State-Owned Company (SOC): A business entity that is wholly or partially owned by the government, such as Eskom.
• Unbundling: The process of separating Eskom into three distinct entities (Generation, Transmission, and Distribution) to improve efficiency and management.