Due to multiple unit failures, Stage 2 loadshedding will be implemented from 21:00 tonight to 05:00 on Tuesday, and be repeated from 21:00 on Tuesday night until 05:00 on Wednesday

Monday, 07 March 2022: Due to multiple generating unit failures over the past 24 hours, Eskom regrets to inform the public that Stage 2 loadshedding will be implemented between 21:00 tonight and 05:00 on Tuesday. This will be repeated same time on Tuesday night until 05:00 on Wednesday. This loadshedding is required in order for Eskom to replenish the emergency generation reserves, which have been utilised significantly since the past weekend.

Loadshedding might be required at short notice should there be any further significant breakdowns.

Since this morning, a unit each at the Matla, Kendal, Matimba, Kusile and Grootvlei power stations tripped, while a unit each at Arnot and Hendrina power stations were forced shut down. This, in addition to other units that had tripped during the weekend, reduced available generation capacity, forcing Eskom to rely heavily on emergency generation reserves to keep the lights on.

Total breakdowns amount to 14 508MW while planned maintenance is 6 307MW of capacity as we continue with the reliability maintenance.

While we expect some generation units to return to service over the next 24 hours, Eskom appeals to all South Africans to help us limit the impact of loadshedding by reducing the usage of electricity and to switch off all non-essential items.

We will communicate promptly should there be any significant changes to the power system.

ENDS