#WinterIsComing: Eskom load reduction plan showing positive results
As part of real-time network monitoring, load reduction may be implemented as a precautionary measure outside of stipulated times should the need arise to protect the assets in line with electricity regulations and the Public Finance Management Act
According to Ronel Kotze, Eskom’s stakeholder and media relations officer, customers are experiencing less power outages as a result of Eskom’s load reduction initiative implemented on May 13.
She explained that in the past three years (2017 to 2019), Eskom in Gauteng has recorded a significant number of pole-mounted transformers and mini substations which failed because of network overloading during winter.
Gauteng maintenance and operations senior manager Motlhabane Ramashi said the measures they have put in place are curbing these failures.
“As a response to the overloading, we urge our customers, particularly those in high-density areas and those with multiple and/or backyard dwellings, to use only essential energy in an effort to avoid load reductions and prolonged outages due to network faults, as a result of overloading. We would like to reiterate that the load reductions are implemented in the identified areas or networks that are overloaded.”
Ramashi said they remain committed to providing electricity safely without degenerating Eskom assets.
“It is important to run our operations efficiently and curb financial losses as a result of illegal activities that cause overloading, as this is costly and unsustainable,” he said.
“The electricity service is crucial for other essential service providers during the lockdown. The power utility recently reported that it is experiencing a high energy demand during peak periods in the mornings and evenings, between 5am and 9am and between 5pm and 9pm, and has therefore implemented load reduction to protect assets from repeated failure and explosions resulting from illegal connections, meter tampering and vandalism of infrastructure.”
Ramashi highlighted that as part of real-time network monitoring, load reduction may be implemented as a precautionary measure outside of stipulated times should the need arise to protect the assets in line with electricity regulations and the Public Finance Management Act.
“We discourage all illegal connections and activities as they result in overloading and prolonged outages. The safety of the public remains a concern, coupled with communities’ resistance to us removing illegal connections,” concluded Ramashi.
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