ESKOM has declared a power emergency because of severe constraints on the national power grid, a report on the Mail & Guardian’s website said.
If the demand for electricity was not reduced, the statement from Eskom read, ‘rotational power cuts’ would need to be implemented.
The constrained conditions are expected to continue tomorrow (Thursday), particularly between peak usage time of between 5.30pm and 6.30pm.
Eskom added it had enough generating capacity to meet daytime demand, but during the evening peak the electricity demand increased, predominantly due to the use of heaters, geysers and stoves.
The power utility advised that consumers delay using electric heaters and ensure that geysers, pool pumps and non-essential lights were switched off during the evening peak.
“Eskom will utilise all necessary emergency resources at its disposal to keep the lights on, but should the demand not decrease, load reduction will be implemented as a measure of last resort to protect the national grid from a total shutdown,” the statement continued.
Load-shedding schedules are available on the Eskom website for its direct customers, while municipal customers should contact 0396825555 regarding possible power cuts.
