
Loadshedding might have to be implemented over the next few weeks, Eskom warned consumers on Monday.
The power utility issued a statement saying that due to continued shortage of generation capacity, the possibility of loadshedding is very high for this evening and “for the next few weeks” as the power system remains very constrained.
A total of 19 855MW of generation capacity is currently not being utilised – 5 232MW is on planned maintenance and 14 623MW of capacity is unavailable due to breakdowns.
“Eskom cautions the public that as the shortage of generation capacity persists, the system will continue to be constrained with an elevated risk of loadshedding over the coming weeks,” Eskom said.
“There are a number of generating units expected to return to service during the day today, but the likelihood of loadshedding is high and may be required at short notice, most likely during the evening peaks between 17:00 and 22:00.”
Eskom urged South Africans to use electricity sparingly, especially between 05:00 – 09:00 and 16:00 and 22:00.