Eskom will implement stage 2 load shedding today which is likely to continue until 10pm this evening.

“If there is a need to move to stage 3, we will communicate accordingly. This is due to a shortage of generation capacity as several units are currently out of service due to planned and unplanned outages,” a media statement reads.

Stage 2 load shedding requires a reduction of about 2 000MW – meaning that although certain areas will be without electricity for a certain period, about 93 per cent 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.

“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 will provide regular updates on the status of the power system through all the media platforms.

For Mogale City’s load shedding schedule, click here.