Eskom has announced that load-shedding Stage 2 during evening peak hours will continue throughout the week as it battles shortages of generation capacity.
“Due to the continued shortage of generation capacity, Stage 2 load-shedding will be implemented from 17:00 until 22:00 throughout the week,” the struggling power utility said in its latest communique issued Sunday.
“While there may be instances where load-shedding might need to be implemented outside of these hours, as far as possible Eskom will endeavour to limit the implementation of load-shedding to the evening peak in order to limit the impact of the capacity shortages on the public.”
Eskom said it will continue to closely monitor the system, adjust and communicate any changes as may be necessary.
“We appeal to all South Africans to help limit the impact of load-shedding by reducing the usage of electricity and to switch off all non-essential items,” said Eskom.
“We currently have 3 028MW on planned maintenance, while another 14 992MW of capacity is unavailable due to breakdowns,” said the power utility.
Eskom again 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 between 05:00 and 09:00 in the mornings and 16:00 and 22:00 in the evenings.”