Eskom works to restore two Kendal Power Station units after weekend fire

Eskom says it is working to restore two units to service at Kendal Power Station following a fire incident that occurred over the weekend.

Technicians are hoping to bring units 2 and 3 back online some time this week.

The fire damaged unit 1 and the cables to the main cooling water system on the west side of the power station.

That damage is expected to take at least two months to fix – as operators say it will only be returned to service in November.

The power utility said all personnel who were on site were evacuated safely with no injuries sustained.

ALSO READ: Eskom confirms fire at Kendal Power Station, one unit damaged

Eskom is now depending on the country’s diesel turbines to keep the power supply uninterrupted.

“We do not anticipate that any load-shedding will be implemented as a result of the incident. We urge members of the public to continue using electricity sparingly to assist the country,” the power utility said in a statement.

The fire comes a month after a fire broke out at a unit in Medupi.

At the time, Eskom’s Daniel Mashigo said in a circulated WhatsApp message that seven workers were being treated for “possible injuries and treated shock”. 

It was later confirmed that no workers were injured, but that seven were treated for shock.

Eskom said it would keep the public informed should there be any significant change in the power system.

ALSO READ: Another setback for Medupi plant after unit explodes