#Eskom: Residents warned to plan for possible load shedding tonight

The national electricity supplier, Eskom has warned that it may be forced to implement load shedding. This is due to current industrial action at Eskom power stations, which has had an impact on operations.

In a statement, Eskom said that the risk of load shedding remains high during the peak demand period from 5am.

It said that it will advise whether load shedding will be conducted in either stages 1, 2, 3 or 4, depending on the capacity shortage.

Stage 1 requires 1000MW to be rotationally load-shed nationwide, Stage 2 requires 2000MW, Stage 3 requires 3000MW and Stage 4 calls for up to 4000MW to be rotationally load-shed nationally at any given period.

Load shedding is conducted rotationally as a last resort to protect the power system from a total collapse or blackout.

“We encourage residents and businesses to please use electricity sparingly to ease the demand. Please switch off geysers during the day especially during peak periods from 5am to 10am and 5pm to 10pm as well as all non-essential lighting and electricity appliances to assist in reducing demand,” the entity said.

Customers are advised to keep checking their load shedding schedules on the Eskom or municipal website and plan on the assumption that load shedding will take place.

According to the statement, Eskom is urgently engaging union leaders to resolve the impasse as the current industrial action has negatively impacted plant operations and several power stations.

The South African Police Service has been mobilised to maintain order and to enable safe access to power stations as these are national key points.

To view load shedding schedules visit www.loadshedding.eskom.co.za

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