Ongoing illegal strike action causes stage 4 load-shedding until at least Wednesday
“There is a possibility that the stage of load-shedding may have to change at short notice, depending on the plant and the availability of labour."
Due to the unlawful and unprotected strike at a number of power stations, Eskom has informed the public that load-shedding will continue until midnight on Wednesday.
The strike has caused delays in carrying out planned maintenance and repairs as all staff members have not reported for duty.
As a result, unplanned generation losses have compelled Eskom to continue taking precautionary measures to conserve generation capacity and safeguard plants from damage.
“There is a possibility that the stage of loadshedding may have to change at short notice, depending on the plant and the availability of labour,” the power utility said in a statement.
Currently approximately 4000MW of generation capacity is at risk due to the illegal strike action and “it is therefore necessary to replenish emergency generation reserves to be able to react to unforeseen circumstances”.
“Adequate emergency reserves are crucial to assist with the generation deficit while dealing with generating units that may trip, and to compensate for the inability to return to generating units timeously to service them.
“Protracted strike actions may lead to further damage and prolonged delays in returning units to service, which would compound an already constrained power system.”
Currently 3 894MW is on planned maintenance, while another 15 472MW of capacity is unavailable due to breakdowns.
In addition to this, a further 600MW is unavailable due to a line fault in Mozambique by the Hydroelectrica de Cahora Bassa (HCB).
Eskom continues to closely monitor the system, adjust and communicate any changes as may be necessary.
“We appeal to all South Africans to help limit the impact of the shortages by limiting the use of electricity and switching off all non-essential items.
“We would like to remind the public that load-shedding is implemented only as a last resort to protect the national grid,” Eskom said.
Also read: Defaulting Eskom customers threaten supply to paying residents
They urge all South Africans to continue to use electricity sparingly.
“We want to appeal to our labour partners and striking employees to put the people of South Africa first, respect the law in and to desist from unlawful and undemocratic combat. The labour dispute resolution process must be allowed to run its course without illegal acts of intimidation and damage to property.”
Eskom will consider all legal actions at its disposal for damage caused or incited by union representatives.
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