Stage 2 load shedding returns on the first day of the new season
Eskom has confirmed it will implement stage 2 load shedding from midday, 12pm until 22:00 on Tuesday evening.
On what is traditionally known as Spring Day, the struggling power utility says the generation system is severely constrained due to multiple unit breakdowns.
Eskom spokesperson Sikonathi Mantshantsha says ten generation units at seven power stations suffered breakdowns in the last 48 hours.
"A generator each broke down at Arnot, Medupi, Lethabo, Matla power stations, while two units each at Majuba, Camden and Tutuka power stations also broke down. This, together with the need to conserve emergency generation reserves, necessitates that loadshedding be implemented in order to protect the integrity of the system," says Mantshantsha.
He adds that any further deterioration in the generation performance may necessitate the escalation of load shedding at short notice.
"As the aged generation infrastructure is unreliable and volatile, this constrained power system is expected to persist for the rest of the week.
“We urge the people of South Africa to help reduce electricity usage in order to assist Eskom to reduce the instance of load shedding," adds Mantshantsha.
Listen to Sikonathi Mantshantsha :