Due to the ongoing unprotected labour action, Eskom is
compelled to take precautionary actions to conserve emergency generation
reserves. Loadshedding was regretfully implemented to Stage 4 from 11:00 am
until midnight. On Saturday and Sunday Stage 4 loadshedding will be implemented
from 05:00 am until midnight.
It is necessary to bolster emergency generation reserves to
react to unforeseen circumstances, as well as to replenish emergency reserves to prepare for the week
ahead. This would help fill the generation deficit while dealing with generating units that may trip
amidst the disturbances and compensate for the inability to return generating units timeously to service.
While exploring possible solutions to unlock the deadlock with
the unions, Eskom appeals to its labour partners and striking employees to
embrace the higher purpose of putting the people of South Africa first, respect
the law and to desist from illegal and undemocratic conduct.
However, Eskom cautions the public that as the shortage of
generation capacity persists, the system will continue to be constrained with an elevated risk of
loadshedding over the coming weeks.
Eskom continues to closely monitor the system, adjust and
communicate any changes as may be necessary. We appeal to all South Africans to help limit the
impact of the shortages by continuing to reduce the usage of electricity and to switch off all
non-essential items. We currently have 2 766MW on planned maintenance, while
another 17 395MW of capacity is unavailable due to breakdowns.
We would like to remind the public that loadshedding is
implemented only as a last resort to protect the national grid. We therefore
urge all South Africans to continue using electricity sparingly especially
during these uncertain times on the power system.
