The power system is severely constrained in eMalahleni, Thembisile and Dr JS Moroka Municipalities due to two faulty transformers at Vulcan substation. One transformer failed on Thursday 6 November, while the other one had been out since Tuesday, 4 November due to planned maintenance.
Eskom’s technicians worked throughout the night on a contingency plan to manage the morning peak load and to expedite the completion of the maintenance on the transformers.
During this period, consumers are requested to help reduce load by switching off non-essential appliances to prevent the need for rotational load shedding.
Eskom media statement:
Progress at Majuba stabilises power system. Thursday, 6 November the system is still tight today but stable, with the Majuba power station currently generating 1 900MW. Four of the six units at Majuba power station are currently operating with a possibility that a fifth unit will be synchronised to the grid tomorrow.
The risk of load shedding is therefore low today and for the rest of the week into the weekend as a result of the increased generating capacity from the power station.
The dam levels at our peaking power stations which use water to generate electricity are at manageable levels, and the weekend will be used to restore operating reserves and dam levels at our pumped storage stations which will prepare us for next week. We anticipate being able to do this without needing any load shedding.
Eskom continues to appeal to consumers to reduce their electricity usage throughout the day, but especially from 18h00 to 22h00. Please switch off geysers, air conditioners, pool pumps and all non-essential appliances to prevent the need for rotational load shedding.
Should we need to go into load shedding, customers will be alerted as early as possible. 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.
For tips on how to trim 10% off your consumption, please visit the Eskom website.
Load shedding schedule here.
