Update: SA braces for the worst, as Eskom announces possible return of load-shedding
Following over ten months of consistent power supply, Eskom warns of a potential return to load-shedding due to recent technical failures.
In a surprising turn of events, Eskom has issued a high-risk alert for load-shedding, marking a concerning shift after more than ten months of uninterrupted electricity supply. The alert comes in light of technical breakdowns within the generation fleet, which have led to the depletion of emergency power reserves.
Read more: How to manage your laundry during load-shedding
Eskom’s Group chief executive Dan Marokane addressed the public, assuring them this situation is likely a temporary setback. “Load-shedding is largely behind us due to the structural improvements in our generation fleet,” Marokane stated. “However, over the past seven days, we’ve encountered several breakdowns that require extended repair times. As a result, we have exhausted all our emergency reserves, which now need to be replenished.”
Also read: Joburg begs for three-day load-shedding exception
As a precautionary measure, Eskom is preparing for the possibility of implementing load-shedding, potentially reaching up to Stage 4, over the upcoming weekend. The utility company is committed to closely monitoring the situation and will make any updates as needed.
The announcement comes as a stark reminder of the challenges that lie ahead, despite the recent successes of the Generation Recovery Plan that has ensured consistent power supply for the better part of a year. Eskom is urging the public to remain informed and prepared for any impending disruptions in electricity service.
Update:
It has been announced that Eskom will begin implementing loadshedding from January 31 around 17:00. Residents are advised to be prepared.
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