Stage 6 load shedding implemented due to failing generating units

Dreams of lower stages of load shedding leading up to Christmas have been dashed, after Eskom announced stage 6 was implemented on Friday morning.

Eskom said the breakdown of eight generating units overnight and on Friday morning necessitated the use of Open Cycle Gas Turbines and pumped storage generation.

This prompted an escalation of load shedding stages.

“The inability to pump water overnight at the pumped storage schemes and the low diesel levels has resulted in critically low emergency reserves which needs to be conserved.”

Since Thursday, a unit each at Duvha, Grootvlei, Tutuka, Kriel, Lethabo and Camden power stations occurred, as well as two units at Kendal power station.

Delays in bringing generating units at Arnot, Duvha, Matla, Camden and Hendrina power stations back online has also contributed to capacity constraints.

Over the past 24 hours, no units have been returned to service.

16 672MW of capacity is unabailable due to breakdowns, and 8 023MW is on planned maintenance.

Stage 6 load shedding means many could be without electricity for as much as eight hours a day.

At the time of the abdupt shift in stages, South Africa was under stage 5 and 4 load shedding.