A number of motorists were gridlocked this morning (5 February) for close to two hours because of load-shedding. This is after Eskom announced yesterday that it would be suspending the pilot programme they had started just a day ago to reduce traffic congestion during peak hours.
“Stage 2 remains in effect until Thursday (6 February) at 6am, with respite during early morning and evening traffic periods, 6am to 9am and 4pm to 6pm, when possible.”
This meant that the whole city would not be load-shed during the peak hours but this plan soon crumbled as Eskom implemented load-shedding during the early and late peak hours causing massive traffic congestion during the hours.
Stage 2 load-shedding is however still going on and will only end tomorrow, 6 January.
Eskom explained that load-shedding was necessary due to a shortage in capacity and to replenish emergency reserves during the week. “We will continue to monitor the system closely and will give periodic updates on the status of the power system as things may change at short notice.”
To assist with the electricity problems in reducing the stage of loadshedding, customers are urged to use electricity sparingly:
• Set air-conditioners’ average temperature at 23ºC
• Switch off your geysers over peak periods
• Use the cold water tap rather than using the geyser every time
• Set your swimming pool pump cycle to run twice a day, three hours at a time for optimal energy use
• At the end of the day, turn off computers, copiers, printers and fax machines at the switch. Avoid standby or sleep mode.
“We will keep South Africans informed about the status of the electricity system and our recovery efforts throughout this period.
“We appeal to customers to revisit their load-shedding schedules on the Eskom or local municipal websites, depending on their electricity supplier, to review new amendments.”
Related article:
https://www.citizen.co.za/alex-news/149791/city-power-implements-stage-2-load-shedding/
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