ESKOM has reported that stage 2 load shedding will be implemented from 10am today.

In a statememt released today, Eskom said load shedding is likely to continue till 10pm.

This is due to a shortage of generation capacity as several units are currently out of service due to planned and unplanned outages, and if there is a need to move to stage 3, Eskom will notify the public.

Stage 2 load shedding requires a reduction of about 2000MW, meaning that although certain areas will be without electricity for a certain period, about 93% of South Africans will still continue to receive full power supply at that time.

“We request all customers to assist us in managing demand by urgently switching off geysers, air conditioners, pool pumps and all non-essential appliances throughout the day, which will reduce electricity demand and thus alleviate pressure on the electricity grid.

“It should be noted that Eskom implements load shedding as a last resort to protect the national grid from a total shutdown. We utilise all necessary emergency resources at our disposal, but if demand does not decrease, we implement load shedding,” said Eskom.

Commercial customers, particularly shopping centres and office blocks, can make a big difference by switching off non-essential lights and not leaving office equipment such as photocopiers and computers in standby mode after hours.

Eskom customers can visit the website  to view the load shedding schedules or contact Eskom’s call centre on 0860 037 566.
Municipal customers should contact their municipalities.