[LISTEN] Big business discussion with Eskom heated as it confirms 'we will not get out of load shedding this week'
In an emergency meeting on Tuesday morning, one of the main points of discussion was the impact of load shedding on the economy and, potentially, on people's lives with mines, for example, fearful to send workers underground if they are not sure they will be able to bring them back up to safety.
Eskom COO, Jan Oberholzer says their discussions with big businesses such as mines have become heated in the wake of rolling blackouts.
On Monday, South Africa was hit with Stage 6 load shedding and Oberholzer has confirmed that the outlook for the week is grim.
"We will not get out of load shedding this week,' said Oberholzer on Tuesday morning.
ALSO READ: Eskom apologises for sudden Stage 6 load shedding on Monday
He notes that in an emergency meeting on Tuesday morning, one of the main points of discussion was the impact of load shedding on the economy and, potentially, on people's lives with mines, for example, fearful to send workers underground if they are not sure they will be able to bring them back up to safety.
"We take this extremely seriously," said Oberholzer. "We are in constant communication with the high-energy using clients."
Oberholzer notes that the morning's meeting saw "intense discussion" on this point.
Listen to Oberholzer below as he talks about the impact of load shedding on big business:
Oberholzer said he believes Eskom made the right decision to move to Stage 6 load shedding on Monday, although they regret the impact it has had on all South Africans.
"What is critical is to never compromise the integrity of the electrical system," says Oberholzer.
ALSO READ: Find your load shedding schedules here
Listen to Oberholzer below as he explains the load shedding stages: