No load shedding planned for Sunday – for now

Despite the system remaining constrained and volatile, Eskom will not introduce load shedding on Sunday.

However, load shedding could be implemented at short notice should there be a significant shift in plant performance and unplanned technical breakdowns, the entity warned on Saturday night.

While some units returned to service as planned, emergency diesel and water reserves had to be used on Saturday to supplement capacity, as generating units returned later than expected.

Eskom hopes to replenish diesel reserves for its open cycle gas turbines and to increase water levels at pumped storage schemes to avoid and minimise load shedding in the coming week.

Plans are progressing well to repair the conveyor belt at Medupi power station to achieve full operation and to expedite the return of units that experienced technical problems.

Eskom asked customers to use air conditioners efficiently at 23 degrees where heatwave conditions persist.