As previously communicated, loadshedding has been increased to Stage 6 from 08:30 this morning until further notice.

Friday, 16 December 2022: Due to the breakdown of eight generating units overnight and this morning, which necessitated the excessive use of Open Cycle Gas Turbines and pumped storage generation, Stage 6 loadshedding was implemented at 08:30 this morning. The inability to pump water overnight at the pumped storage schemes and the low diesel levels has resulted in critically low emergency reserves which needs to be conserved. Eskom will publish a further update as soon as there are any significant changes.

Since Thursday afternoon, breakdowns of a unit each at Duvha, Grootvlei, Tutuka, Kriel, Lethabo, Camden power stations occurred as well as two units at Kendal Power Station. In addition, the delay in returning to service a generating unit each at Arnot, Duvha, Matla, Camden and Hendrina power stations has contributed to the capacity constraints.

Regrettably, no units were returned to service in the past 24 hours.

We currently have 8 023MW on planned maintenance, while another 16 672MW of capacity is unavailable due to breakdowns.

Eskom requests the public to reduce the usage of electricity and to exercise patience and tolerance during this difficult period.

Loadshedding is implemented only as a last resort in view of the shortage of generation capacity and the need to attend to breakdowns.

ENDS