The acting group executive for generation at Eskom, Rhulani Mathebula, is leaving the utility with immediate effect.

This is the second change to the position in almost six months.

Mathebula was appointed after the previous head of generation, Philip Dukashe, resigned from the position in May. Mathebula is an Eskom veteran, having joined the utility 19 years ago.

On Tuesday, Eskom appointed Thomas Conradie as the new acting group executive.

Conradie has been with Eskom for almost 24 years. Since 2014, he has been managing the Lethabo power station near Vereeniging. He has previously managed the Kriel, Matla and Majuba power stations in Mpumalanga.

He holds an MBA from Unisa and a master's degree in mechanical engineering from Stellenbosch University.

As loadshedding worsens to record levels, Eskom has seen high-profile departures in recent months – among them the respected head of its energy transition department, Mandy Rambharos, who quit to join a US nonprofit. Earlier this year, Riedewaan Barkadien, the chief nuclear officer, resigned after 27 years with Eskom.

In October, Eskom’s board was replaced, and the new directors have been handed the fate of CEO André de Ruyter, who is fighting for his job.