Another load shedding expected to hit the country

South Africans should brace themselves for another dark weekend.

Earlier this week the power utility Eskom confirmed there were no scheduled power cuts for the week, however that situation has now changed.

According to Khulu Phasiwe, from Eskom’s communications desk, there is a possibility of power cuts if more pressure is put on Eskom’s grid this week.

“We have been battling with increased demand due to a shortage of diesel and water reserves for the gas turbines and water pumps,” said Phasiwe.

He also explained that they have been using their emergency reserves extensively, however these reserves might be depleted. “We are obviously inconveniencing people but we can expect that these reserves will be depleted before the end of the week. The power is severely constraint and the risk is moderate to high,” said Phasiwe.

He also highlighted that the whole country could be affected

Eskom said the power system will be expected to stabilise in mid-December when businesses close for the festive season.

Last month, a coal storage silo at the Majuba Power Station in Mpumalanga collapsed, resulting in widespread power cuts. Maintenance at the Cahora Bassa hydroelectric Power Station in Mozambique had also affected power supply.

Phasiwe advises residents to contact Eskom or City power to find out when and what time they will be affected by load shedding.