Eskom calls for reduced electricity usage

According to Eskom the power system was severely constrained last Thursday due to the loss of additional generating units from Eskom’s power station fleet, reduced imports and the extensive use of emergency reserves.

“This has necessitated the need for Eskom to declare an emergency in terms of the approved regulatory protocols, as a measure to protect the national electricity grid,” said communications Lerato Nkosi.

She said Eskom is now following the protocol in terms of its emergency procedures in order to secure the power system.

“We have alerted our key industrial customers and have required them to reduce their load by a minimum of 10% as from 20 February at 2 pm. While we will make every effort to avoid load shedding, we are hopeful that by applying these measures, coupled with support from all electricity consumers, we will achieve the required load reduction necessary to protect the national grid,” she said.

Nkosi said load shedding schedules will only be used for the duration of the constraint and Eskom will provide regular updates on the status of the power system.

“Residential consumers are called on to switch off geysers, air conditioners, lights and non-essential appliances from 5pm to 9pm,” she said.

Residents can view the precautionary measure Eskom’s load shedding schedules for Eskom direct customers on their website (https://loadshedding.eskom.co.za/) or contact their call centre on 0860 037 566