Eskom has on Sunday implemented Stage 1 load shedding from 5:00 until 16:00, which will be followed by Stage 3 power cuts until 5:00 on Monday.

According the state-owned power utility, Stage 1 load shedding will be implemented from 5:00 until 16:00 on Monday.

“Eskom will provide a further update on Monday or should any significant changes occur.”

Breakdowns, according to Eskom, are currently at 16 547 megawatts (MW) of generating capacity while the generating capacity out of service for planned maintenance is 4 507 MW.

“Over the past 24 hours, a generating unit at Arnot and two generating units at Matla power stations were returned to service.

“In the same period, a generating unit at Camden, Duvha, Kendal, Kriel and Majuba power stations was taken offline for repairs,” the statement read on Saturday.

Eskom said the delay in returning to service a generating unit at Kendal and two generating units at Tutuka power stations is contributing to the current capacity constraints.

“Eskom teams are working tirelessly to return these generating units to service.”

The utility is appealing to the members of the public to continue reducing demand by switching off non-essential appliances.

“We would like to thank those who do heed the call to use electricity sparingly and efficiently, including switching off geysers and pool pumps from 17:00 to 21:00, as this lowers demand and helps in alleviating the pressure on the power system and contributes to lower stages of load shedding.”

Source: South African Government News Agency