As a result Eskom has had to go into stage 1 load shedding as of 11:00. This will continue until 22:00 this evening.

Eskom calls on consumers to urgently switch off geysers, air conditioners, pool pumps and all non-essential appliances throughout the day to reduce electricity demand. As workers leave office buildings this evening we ask that they please switch off the lights, with the exception of security lighting and avoid leaving on air-conditioning overnight.

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

In the event that load-shedding becomes necessary, Eskom will use the published load shedding schedules which are available on the Eskom website (https://loadshedding.eskom.co.za) for Eskom customers.

Eskom customers can also contact our customer call centre 0860 037 566.

Municipal customers are urged to contact their local authorities.

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