Index
1. Introduction 2
2. The Eskom crises 2
3. Scenarios – what can happen 4
3.1. Continuous load shedding 4
3.2. System collapse causing a national blackout 5
4. Strategies for turning Eskom around 5
4.1. Alternative energy options 5
4.2. Independent Power Producers 6
4.3. Depoliticising 6
4.4. Maximum load shedding 6
4.5. Distribution 7
5. Conclusion 7
Bibliography 8

1. Introduction
Eskom Holdings Limited is a household name which was established in 1923. This state-owned utility is responsible for generating, transmitting and distributing electricity to industrial, commercial, agricultural, mining and residential customers (Musana, et al., 2012).
Modern industry is impossible without it and it is the most important new technology of the 20th Century (Kenny, 2015). Since electricity has been a driver of our country’s development over the past century, Eskom’s overall impact on South Africa is significant. The Eskom Factor Report of 2011 states that Eskom has a great responsibility towards our economy, society and environment. It will continue to be a key enabler for economic growth and job creation.
Over the last few years South Africa has experienced substantial growth, facing a broad range of development issues, including Eskom’s reliable supply of electricity and environmental degradation (Eskom., 2011). South Africa’s electricity supply presents a national crisis, which Eskom is almost entirely responsible for (Kenny, 2015). This leaves us with the threat of load shedding and blackouts every month.

2. The Eskom crisis
From 1923 until 1994 Eskom had one task; to make sure South Africa had enough electricity. At that time engineers were in charged and were appointed on merit and nothing else. Eskom was entirely self-financing (Kenny,