In a statement on Friday, the power utility said due to the ongoing unprotected labour action it is compelled to take precautionary actions to conserve emergency generation reserves.

“While exploring possible solutions to unlock the deadlock with the unions, Eskom appeals to its labour partners and striking employees to embrace the higher purpose of putting the people of South Africa first, respect the law and detest from illegal and undemocratic conduct.”

However, Eskom cautions the public that as the shortage of generation capacity persists, the system will continue to be constrained with an elevated risk of loadshedding over the coming weeks.”