Eskom’s load reduction measures in Gauteng are reaping results

Eskom stated that its equipment failure rate following the implementation of its load reduction initiative on May 13 in Gauteng residential areas is showing a positive trend.
The power utility hopes to improve on its initiative and contain it during the winter period.

Also read: Nersa gives Eskom the green light to charge more to generate R13.3 billion

“In the past three years Eskom in Gauteng has recorded a significant number of pole-mounted transformers and mini-substation failures due to network overloading during the winter period.

“The measures we have put in place are curbing these failures,” said Motlhabane Ramashi, Eskom Gauteng’s maintenance and operations senior manager.

“As a response to the overloading, we urge our customers particularly in high-density areas and those with multiple and/or backyard dwellings, to use only essential energy to avoid load reduction and prolonged outages due to network faults, as a result of overloading.

“We reiterate that the load reductions are implemented in the identified areas or on networks that are overloaded,” said Ramashi.

“It is important to run our operations efficiently and curb financial losses as a result of illegal activities that cause overloading, as this is costly and unsustainable.”

The power utility recently reported that it is experiencing a high energy demand during peak periods, in the mornings between 5am and 9am, and again in the evenings between 5pm and 9pm.

Eskom implemented the load reduction to protect assets from repeated failure and explosions resulting from illegal connections, meter tampering and vandalism of the electricity infrastructure.

As part of real-time network monitoring, load reduction may be implemented as a precautionary measure outside of the stipulated times should the need arise to protect the assets in line with electricity regulations and the Public Finance Management Act.