Eskom power stations units go down as electricity demand goes up

Eskom has requested the public to reduce electricity usage after losing four of their units to breakdowns.

Eskom released a statement asking South Africans to decrease the amount of electricity they use as the system is severely constrained following breakdowns. It read, “We have unexpectedly lost four large units to unplanned breakdowns, while the return to service of another two generation units have been delayed.”

According to Eskom, the breakdowns happened at their Kendal, Majuba and Lethabo power stations while the units at Duvha and Tutuka power stations have not returned to service as yet. A further Kendal Power Station unit was taken off due to technical difficulties and to address emissions.

Eskom stated that they only had 31 000MW total capacity available on 23 June but expected the generation system to continue to be severely constrained until the weekend. Eskom expressed, “We urge the public to reduce consumption by switching off non-essential appliances in order to maintain the integrity of the system.” Eskom offered the following electricity tips that will help save electricity and money during the cold, high electricity demand months of the winter season:

• Prepare your kitchen. As the seasons change, so should the contents of your cupboards. Winter is the perfect time to embrace warm, delicious, and nourishing foods to help fight off the bitter chill. Also, start stockpiling winter’s bounty, like squash, pumpkin, and potatoes. This is a great time to dust off your recipe books and pull out those casserole and pressure cooker recipes.
• Try to use energy-efficient appliances when cooking your winter feasts. If you’re surprising your family with a bountiful stew or oxtail, slow cookers are the best option, while microwaves are best for preparing your favourite small-volume winter meals. Alternatively, you can instal an induction stove which is compatible with stainless steel, cast iron and enamel cookware.
• When preparing your cup of warm happiness, boil only enough water for the number of cups of hot drinks you are making and use only the electricity you need.
• Heating your house costs money, why not keep yourself warm because it’s more efficient than heating a room. Dress warmly, wear a beanie and gloves and wrap yourself in a blanket and put a hot water bottle on your lap when you watch television.
• Use your heater to heat only the room you are in and remember to close all the doors and windows while the electric heater is on.