Eskom warns ‘high probability’ of loadshedding as capacity crippled

The state-owned electricity provider Eskom has warned that a further loss in capacity could see loadshedding return, urging people to reduce electricity usage.

The system is severely constrained – the shortage, Eskom said, has been caused by the loss of multiple generation units and high load losses.

Decreasing the utility provider’s ability to supply demand is the planned maintenance of several generation units which have already been taken offline.

A total of 7 532MW is unavailable owing to maintenance being carried out, with another 10 853MW out on unplanned maintenance’.

“Teams are working around the clock to return as many of these units to service as soon as possible,” said Eskom.