While load shedding is not being currently implemented, Eskom requests the public’s assistance in reducing the usage of electricity as the power system is severely constrained. Five generation units at various power stations have failed throughout the day - three over the past two hours. Should there be any further loss of generation capacity, load shedding would be required to be implemented at very short notice. 

A generating unit each at Kusile (800 MW) and Majuba (685 MW) were taken offline to repair boiler tube leaks, while a generating unit each at Kriel (475 MW), Majuba (685 MW) and Matimba (666 MW) tripped. The return to service of a generating unit each at Kendal (686 MW) and Tutuka (600 MW) were delayed.

Total breakdowns have increased to 16 822 MW while planned maintenance is 4888 MW of capacity as we continue with the reliability maintenance.

Eskom appeals to all South Africans to help us avoid the implementation of load shedding by reducing the usage of electricity and to switch off non-essential items.

The power utility says it will communicate promptly should there be any significant changes to the power system.