More unit breakdowns as load shedding stage 2 implemented all weekend

Four generating units losing power have forced Eskom to implement stage 2 load shedding from 2pm on Saturday.

In a statement released on Saturday afternoon, the power utility said breakdowns at two units at Grootvlei and a unit each at Camden and Medupi power stations meant load shedding would continue “until further notice”.

“We currently have 5 244MW on planned maintenance, while another 16 455MW of capacity is unavailable due to breakdowns,” the power utility’s statement read.

On Friday, Eskom said load shedding would be suspended due to lower weekend demand.

This as a generation unit each at Arnot and Majuba power stations returned to service.

Generation units at Duvha, Hendrina, Lethabo and Tutuka power stations were also taken offline for repairs.

Eskom Chief Operating Office Jan Oberholzer said this week the country would likely suffer from load shedding for another 12 to 18 months.

There is currently not sufficient generating capacity to meet demand.

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Additional reporting by Faizel Patel.