Severely strained Eskom says loadshedding may start at short notice

Eskom has threatened to implement loadshedding at short notice, should any further breakdowns occur.

While no loadshedding is currently in effect, the state-owned utility has called on customers to reduce their electricity usage.

Eskom said the power system was under severe strain.

“Over the past 24 hours, Eskom teams returned a generation unit each at Camden, Kendal and Medupi power stations.

“Over the same period, two generation units at Arnot and Hendrina tripped, while a unit each at Arnot and Lethabo were forced to shut down.”

Total breakdowns now stand at 15 852MW, with 4 036MW out on planned maintenance.