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While the power system remains constrained, no loadshedding is expected today. Eskom has enough capacity to meet the demand for electricity. In addition, the emergency reserves, which are diesel and water at our open cycle gas turbines (OCGTs) and pumped storage schemes respectively, were replenished to adequate levels overnight and will be utilised to supplement capacity,  should the need arise.

Unplanned outages were at 13065 MW as at 6:00 this morning, and our technical teams continue to work hard to reduce them to 9 500 MW in order to increase available capacity and limit the risk of loadshedding. However, owing to inadequate maintenance over a number of years, their efforts are negated by the loss of additional generating units.

We request our customers to work with us by reducing their demand while we work on improving the effectiveness of our maintenance. We are monitoring the system closely and we will continue to give periodic updates on the status of the power system as the outlook may change at short notice.

Using electricity wisely assists us to avoid or limit the level of loadshedding.

Set air-conditioners’ average temperature at 23ºC

Switch off your geysers over peak periods

Use the cold water tap rather than using the geyser every time

Set your swimming pool pump cycle to run twice a day, three hours at a time for optimal energy use

At the end of the day, turn off computers, copiers, printers and fax machines at the switch. Avoid stand-by or sleep mode

Issued by Eskom