Due to the continued unprotected labor action, power company Eskom will increase load shedding to stage 4 at 11am.
Eskom claimed in a statement that it was forced to take preventative measures to preserve its emergency generation reserves.
“Unfortunately, load shedding will be applied to stage 4 from 11 AM until Midnight. Stage 4 load shedding will be in effect from 5 a.m. until midnight on Saturday and Sunday.
“Emergency generation reserves must be strengthened to respond to unforeseen occurrences, and emergency reserves must be refilled to get ready for the coming week.”
According to the utility, this would address the generation shortfall, deal with generating units that might trip during the disruptions, and make up for the inability to quickly put generating units back into service.
“Eskom urges to its labor partners and striking staff to embrace the higher goal of putting the people of South Africa first, respect the law, and stop from illegal and undemocratic behavior while looking into potential ways to break the impasse with the unions.
Eskom warns the public, though, that the system would continue to be constrained with a high probability of loadshedding over the upcoming weeks as long as the lack of generation capacity exists.
Eskom stated that it will continue to carefully monitor the system, make any necessary adjustments, and notify any changes.
“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.”
The utility reminded the public that load shedding 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.”
