The delay in returning two generating units at Tutuka Power Station to service is contributing to the current capacity constraints.

Eskom would like to inform the public that stage 4 load-shedding will be implemented from 14:00 today until 05:00 on Wednesday. Thereafter stage 3 and 4 will be implemented until further notice.

According to Eskom, this is due to over the past 24 hours, a generating unit each at Duvha, Hendrina, Kendal, Kriel, Matimba, and Medupi power stations was returned to service. In the same period, a generation unit each at Arnot and Tutuka power stations was taken out of service due to breakdowns.

Eskom teams are working around the clock to return the generating units to service.

Eskom also added that the reduced generation capacity, as well as the high sustained demand for electricity, has required the use of Open Cycle Gas Turbines and pump storage generation over the past 36 hours. To preserve emergency reserves stage 4 load-shedding will be implemented from 14:00 today (July 11) until 05:00 on Wednesday (July 12). This pattern will continue until further notice.

Eskom would like to appeal to the public by assisting them in reducing the use of electricity by switching off geysers and swimming pool pumps from 17:00 to 21:00. This lowers demand and helps in alleviating the pressure on the power system and contributes to lower stages of load-shedding.