Eskom rolls out load limiting in some areas of Gauteng
Smart meter users are able to use some appliances during stages one to four load-shedding.
Eskom is currently rolling out the Load Limiting Project across Gauteng after they successfully implemented a pilot project in Fourways.
Load-limiting is part of the Demand Side Management (DSM) initiative to manage and optimise electricity consumption to better balance the supply and demand of electricity on the grid during Stages One to Four of load-shedding.
With its good reception from the community in Fourways, Eskom subsequently rolled out the project in Riverside View in the second half of 2023.
The next rollout will be implemented in Buccleuch, Kelvin, Paulshof, Marlboro, Sunninghill and Waterfall, where smart meters have been installed.
The initiative focuses on select customers with smart meters, as these have the technical functionality to be controlled remotely. Through load limiting measures during Stages One to Four of load-shedding, they will reduce customers’ electricity capacity from 60/80 amps to 10 amps.
This will allow customers to continue with the minimal use of electricity for essential appliances such as lights, TVs, Wi-Fi routers, fridges, and security systems.
An hour before the start of load-shedding, Eskom will prompt customers to reduce their consumption to 10 amps by sending a message to their cellphone. The system will provide the customer with four opportunities to reduce their consumption.
If the load has not been reduced, the meter will automatically switch off the electricity supply for 30 minutes before restoring the supply.
The power utility urges all its customers with compatible meters where load limiting will be implemented to support the initiative, which ensures that they continue to have electricity for the duration of load-shedding.
The success of the project depends on the partnership between Eskom and the cooperation of its customers, and their willingness to reduce their electricity consumption to below 10 amps.
