Bobby Godsell was thanked for his "exemplary work" at Eskom by the public enterprises department as the former chairperson of the power utility confirmed on Monday he won't be returning.

"Since his appointment he has displayed exemplary leadership to the organisation," the department said in a statement.

"The DPE has always welcomed Mr Godsell's contribution to advancing the state's strategic intent for Eskom. While Mr Godsell's departure is a loss for Eskom, we share his confidence in, and support of the board under its current leadership.

"The minister (Barbara Hogan) would like to thank Mr Godsell for his support and commitment to Eskom."

The department said it would not take follow up questions on the matter.

Earlier, Godsell confirmed his resignation with Hogan, quashing her hopes he might withdraw his resignation.

"The strong management team will soon be strengthened by new appointments in both finance and (human resources)," his statement read.

"Eskom is ready to move forward under new leadership. It is this new leadership that must write the new chapter. I have therefore reconfirmed my resignation to Minister Hogan."

Godsell said recently he submitted his resignation as the government had not been supportive of the board's move to oust chief executive officer Jacob Maroga. His move followed a disagreement between him and Maroga over how the parastatal should be run. Maroga's resignation was confirmed by Eskom's board last Thursday.

In a Talk Radio 702 interview on Friday, Hogan said she would be grateful if Godsell reconsidered his position.