Eskom stops load shedding
JOBURG - Eskom sent words of appreciation to the customers who responded to the call and reduced their electricity consumption, which has enabled Eskom to stop load shedding earlier than anticipated.
The utility implemented stage1 load shedding from 10am today which was expected to end at 10pm tonight to manage dam levels at its pumped storage facilities.
However, according to the Eskom website, “Stage 1 load shedding will be stopped at 2pm today. Restoration of power to affected customers will start at the same time but it is important to note that this will take longer in some areas,” the statement read.
It was also stated that Eskom was able to stop load shedding earlier than expected because a unit that was having maintenance done on it was back in commission, and the demand for electricity was lower than had been forecast. “We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience caused to all affected customers,” the media statement read.
The system would continue to be under severe pressure for the rest of the week, and the risk of load shedding would remain medium to high. “In an effort to avoid load shedding, all electricity users are urged to switch off non-essential appliances, pool pumps and geysers throughout the day,” the statement continued.
Eskom said commercial customers, particularly shopping centres and office blocks could make a big difference by switching off non-essential lights, and not leaving office equipment such as photocopiers and computers in standby mode after hours.
The utility will continue to provide regular updates on the status of the power system through all media platforms.
