Eskom has announced increased load-shedding for the foreseeable future as generating capacity constraints worsen.

Stage 4 load-shedding was implemented at 13:00 and is set to continue until 05:00 tomorrow, when it will be downgraded to stage 2 until 14:00.

These stages of power cuts will make up the new daily schedule, with stage 2 in effect between 05:00 and 14:00, and stage 4 between 14:00 and 05:00.

Eskom spokesperson Daphne Mokwena says 14 252MW of generating capacity is currently offline due to breakdowns, while an additional 4 118MW is unavailable due to planned maintenance.

“Over the past 24 hours, a generating unit each at Duvha, Hendrina, Kendal, Kriel, Matimba and Medupi power stations were returned to service. In the same period, a generation unit each at Arnot and Tutuka power stations were taken out of service due to breakdowns.

“The delay in returning to service two generating units at Tutuka Power Station is contributing to the current capacity constraints. Eskom teams are working around the clock to return the generating units to service,” she explained in a statement.

What you can do

Mokwena, on behalf of the power utility, urges citizens to reduce the demand.

“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,” she concludes.