Stage 6 loadshedding continues as Eskom struggles to return units to service
Eskom has faced several setbacks since Thursday due to multiple generating units being taken out of service.
The power utility says a total of five generating units (50%) were taken out of service due to boiler tube leaks, resulting in insufficient generation capacity.
"Additionally the delay in returning three units from planned maintenance also increased reliance on emergency reserves," says Eskom spokesperson Daphne Mokoena.
"The need to replenish the emergency reserves and inadequate generation capacity necessitated the implementation of Stage 6 loadshedding until further notice.
Eskom will provide an update on the power system’s status on Sunday afternoon.
"Eskom Power Station General Managers and their teams have, however, returned a total of three generating units and continue to work diligently to ensure that an additional 2,400MW of generating capacity is returned to service by Monday morning," says Mokoena.
"We appeal to the public to use electricity sparingly and efficiently, including switching off geysers and pool pumps from 17:00 to 21:00.
"This lowers demand and helps in alleviating the pressure on the power system, contributing to lower stages of loadshedding."
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