Eskom is expected to implement Stage 6 load shedding from 4pm to 5am with Stage 5 to be implemented from 5am to 4pm until further notice.

This pattern will be repeated daily until further notice. This as the power utility reported a shortage of generation capacity as demand ramped up following a decrease over the long weekend.

Over the past 24 hours two generation units were returned to service at Kriel Power Station.

“In the same period, a generating unit at Duvha Power Station was taken offline for repairs. The delays in returning a unit to service at Camden, Kendal, Lethabo, Medupi and Tutuka power stations have contributed to the capacity constraints.

“Similarly, the increase in demand after the long weekend and the re-opening of schools has put additional strain on the power generating system.

“We thank all South Africans who continue using electricity sparingly and efficiently in helping to alleviate the pressure on the power system,” Eskom said on Wednesday.

As of Wednesday afternoon, breakdowns amounted to some 16 772MW of energy being offline with a further 5807MW offline due to maintenance.

Source: South African Government News Agency