eMalahleni residents are urged to prepare for an emergency load reduction that may be implemented following Eskom’s warning of exceptionally high electricity consumption levels in the area.

According to the Emalahleni Local Municipality, Eskom has reported exceptionally high demand across the area, prompting precautionary measures to safeguard the stability of the power network and prevent a total system failure. Should consumption remain high, load reduction will begin at 17:30 in the Buffer Substation area. If demand continues to strain the system, Grobler and Doornpoort substations will also be affected.

The municipality explained that load reduction will be carried out on a rotational basis of approximately every two hours, depending on system demand and overall network stability. This means that residents in affected areas may experience temporary power outages as part of the effort to balance supply and protect infrastructure.

As soaring consumption levels threaten the stability of the local power network, the municipality has sounded the alarm, warning that urgent intervention may be necessary to prevent a total system failure and keep the lights on for as many households and businesses as possible.

The municipality has appealed to the community to play its part in easing pressure on the grid. Residents are encouraged to switch off non-essential appliances, particularly during peak hours, and to use electricity sparingly wherever possible. By reducing consumption, the municipality hopes to limit the extent of load reduction and maintain supply to more areas.