Stage 6 loadshedding will continue to be implemented over the weekend, in order to replenish emergency reserves and set a possible path for the reduction in stages of loadshedding in the coming week.

Thursday, 13 July 2023: The increase in the demand for electricity due to the cold weather, particularly on Monday and Tuesday, was anticipated, however this demand exceeded what was forecasted. Eskom is obliged to carry generation reserves to cater for unforeseen events. These reserves were used on Monday and Tuesday to buffer the effects of the cold weather. Unfortunately, due to the failure of additional generation units since Sunday, the reserves have been depleted and can no longer buffer the lingering effects of the cold weather and make up for the lost generation capacity. Therefore, Stage 6 loadshedding will continue to be implemented over the weekend to replenish the depleted emergency reserves to permit a possible reduction in the stages of loadshedding in the coming week. Eskom will publish another update should any significant changes occur.

Breakdowns are currently at 17 679MW of generating capacity while the generating capacity out of service for planned maintenance is 3 090MW.

The following generating units are contributing to the current capacity constraints:
• A generating unit each at Grootvlei, Hendrina, Lethabo, Tutuka, two generating units at Arnot, Matla and three generating units at Kriel power stations have been taken out of service since Sunday.
• A generating unit at Kendal and two generating units at Tutuka power stations have been delayed to return to service.

Eskom teams are working tirelessly to return these generating units to service. It is anticipated that eight generating units will be returned to service in the next few days.

Due to the current high demand, we appeal to the members of the public to assist in reducing demand and 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 loadshedding.

ENDS