Load-shedding to be implemented at Stages 2 and 4 this week
Eskom appeals to public to use electricity sparingly.
Breakdowns in generating capacity have led to load-shedding being extended according to Eskom. Stage 4 will be implemented from 16:00 until 05:00 today and thereafter Stage 2 will be implemented from 05:00 until 16:00. This pattern will be implemented until further notice.
According to Eskom, breakdowns have been reduced to 15 798 Mega Watts of generating capacity, while capacity out of service for planned maintenance is 3 099 megawatts. Over the past 24 hours, a generating unit each at Grootvlei, Kendal, Kriel, Majuba, and Medupi power stations was returned to service. The delay in returning to service a generating unit at Kendal and two generating units at Tutuka power stations is contributing to the current capacity constraints.
Eskom teams are working tirelessly to return these generating units to service. In the meantime, Eskom in its press statement has also urged that citizens assist them in reducing demand by switching off non-essential appliances, especially geysers and pool pumps between 17:00 to 21:00.
“We appeal to the members of the public to assist in reducing demand by switching off non-essential appliances. We would like to thank those who do heed the call to use electricity sparingly and efficiently, including switching off geysers and pool pumps from 17:00 to 21:00, as this lowers demand and helps in alleviating the pressure on the power system and contributes to lower stages of load-shedding,” said Eskom.
Eskom will provide updates as rolling blackouts are implemented.
