Pronunciation: [ˈɛskəm] (IPA) 
Eskom is a South African power utility company. The spelling of Eskom is quite straightforward as it phonetically sounds like "es-kom". When written in IPA, it is /ˈɛskɒm/. The first syllable "es" is pronounced as "ess" with the vowel sound of "e" as in "bed". The second syllable "kom" has the hard "k" sound with the vowel sound of "o" as in "hot". The word "Eskom" has become synonymous with power outages and load shedding in South Africa.
Eskom is a South African state-owned electricity company that is responsible for generating, transmitting, and distributing electricity to the country. As the country's primary electricity provider, Eskom plays a crucial role in ensuring a stable and reliable power supply.
The etymology of the term Eskom can be traced back to "Electricity Supply Commission" in Afrikaans, which was later abbreviated to "ESKOM". Founded in 1923, Eskom has undergone several changes in its structure and operations over the years to adapt to the evolving energy landscape.
Eskom operates a vast network of power stations, including thermal, nuclear, and renewable energy plants, to generate electricity. The generated power is then transmitted through a complex system of transmission lines and substations, effectively distributing electricity across South Africa.
ESKOM also plays a critical role in managing the demand and supply of electricity, ensuring sufficient power is available to meet the country's needs. This involves monitoring consumption patterns, implementing load shedding where necessary, and promoting energy efficiency to reduce strain on the electrical grid.
As a state-owned enterprise, Eskom has faced various challenges, including financial difficulties and maintenance issues. However, it continues to be a key player in South Africa's energy sector, striving to provide affordable and sustainable electricity to support the country's economic growth and development.
