Eskom implemented stage 1 load shedding as early as 3pm which will continue until 4pm on Thursday. Stage 2 load shedding will then be implemented from 4pm which is likely to continue until 10pm.

The electricity giant released an official statement saying, “This is due to increased electricity demand and a shortage of generation capacity resulting from technical faults at some of our power station units.

“Eskom would like to assure customers that load shedding is implemented as a necessary measure to protect the power system and to ensure that maintenance is carried out in order to guarantee that our supply of electricity can be maintained in the long term.

“Any unexpected changes on the vulnerable and constrained power system could lead to a change in the load shedding stage at short notice.

“As we are currently experiencing cold weather conditions across the country, we urge electricity users to consider energy efficient ways of keeping warm.”

Eskom will use the published load shedding schedules which are available on the Eskom website for Eskom customers. Eskom customers can also contact our customer call centre 0860 037 566.

Municipal customers should contact their municipalities for information.

Randfonteiners can view their load shedding schedule here. (Please note: Scroll down once opened)