Eskom warns of ‘probable’ load shedding as Koeberg unit shuts down
Eskom has warned it might have to implement stage 2 load shedding at short notice during the evening peak on Friday and over the weekend.
The embattled power utility suspended power cuts on Thursday evening, although the generation system remains constrained.
"This is due to a shortage of generation capacity owing to breakdowns and delays in returning some generating units to service,” says Eskom spokesperson Sikonathi Mantshantsha.
“The cold front expected during the weekend is also anticipated to result in increased demand for electricity, adding to the capacity constraints. We therefore urge all South Africans to continue using electricity sparingly," says Mantshantsha.
Mantshantsha says unit 2 at Koeberg was shut down on Friday morning as part of operating procedures, which has increased the possibility of loadshedding.
"During routine testing of the control rod mechanism on the unit, one of the control rods developed a mechanical problem. In order to rectify this, the unit has been safely shut down in accordance with safe nuclear operating procedure and the nuclear regulations.
“It has not yet been determined how long the repairs will take, but it could be up to five days, whereafter the unit will ramp up over three days. During this period the probability of loadshedding has increased," says Mantshantsha.
There has also been a breakdown of two generation units at the Hendrina power station.
This is in addition to a delay in returning a generating unit each at Kendal, Komati, Kusile and Tutuka power stations.
"During the same period, Eskom teams have returned to service a generating unit each at Kriel and Matla power stations. Eight generating units are expected to return to service by Monday evening," says Mantshantsha.
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