Load-shedding will be increased to stage 3 from 22:00.

That is according to the latest update by Eskom spokesperson Daphne Mokwena who says the increase is needed to replenish resources.

“Due to the need to replenish the pumped storage dams, which are required to meet the morning and evening peak loads, and a generating unit that was taken offline for repairs over the past 24 hours, stage 3 load-shedding will be implemented from 22:00 until further notice,” she explains.

Mokwena says 6 771MW of generating capacity is currently unavailable due to planned maintenance, while a further 15 958MW of the capacity is unavailable due to unplanned outages.

“Eskom power station general managers and their teams will continue to work diligently to ensure that 2 473MW of generating capacity is returned to service by Monday as planned. Eskom’s evening peak demand tonight was 27 415MW,” she adds.