“Load shedding will be not be implemented today. Even though there is some improvement, we remind customers that load shedding can be implemented at short notice if there are any shifts on the system,” said the power utility on Wednesday.

Eskom added that the power system remains vulnerable while several units have returned to service.

In addition, good progress has been made in replenishing emergency reserves.

As of 5:50 this morning, unplanned outages or breakdowns were at 10 456MW.

READ: Eskom announcement: Load-shedding possible this evening (Thursday)

“Eskom will communicate if there is any change and will provide a prognosis for tomorrow later today.”

The power utility has requested customers to continue using electricity sparingly and to reduce demand during this period.

“Eskom also wishes to remind South Africans that there is a possibility of increased load shedding over the next 18 months as we are conducting critical maintenance to restore the ageing plant to good health,” it said.

The power utility terminated Stage 1 load shedding at 9pm last night.

To assist in reducing the stage of load shedding the power utility had the following advice for customers:

Set air-conditioners’ average temperature at 23ºC;
Switch off your geysers over peak periods;
Use the cold water tap rather than using the geyser every time;
Set your swimming pool pump cycle to run twice a day, three hours at a time; and
At the end of the day, turn off computers, copiers, printers and fax machines at the switch.