Stage 1 load shedding implemented

Eskom began implementing stage 1 load shedding from 4pm today, which is likely to continue until 10pm.

This is due to a shortage of generation capacity as several units are currently on unplanned outages due to technical faults.

The power system remains constrained and will remain so for the rest of this week.

Eskom therefore urged all electricity customers to reduce their consumption to reduce the severity of load shedding.

There are several units that had been expected to return from maintenance today that are now delayed due to further technical problems.

Koeberg Unit 1 is also scheduled to enter into a refuelling and maintenance outage from today and is expected to return back to service at the end of May.

Eskom would like to thank all the customers who responded to their call and reduced their energy consumption, which helps reduce the severity of load shedding.

Eskom sincerely apologised for the inconvenience to affected customers.

Eskom managed to augment its emergency reserves (dam water levels and diesel stocks at its peaking power stations) over the weekend.

They called on all customers to reduce the load on the electricity grid by urgently switching off geysers, air conditioners, pool pumps and all non-essential appliances throughout the day, which will reduce electricity demand.

Commercial customers, particularly shopping centres and office blocks, can also make a big difference by switching off non-essential lights and not leaving office equipment such as photocopiers and computers in standby mode after hours.

Eskom customers can check load shedding schedules on the Eskom website (https://loadshedding.eskom.co.za) or contact their customer call centre at 0860 037 566.

Municipal customers are urged to contact their local authorities.