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The power system is severely constrained today due to the unavailability of some of our generating units, and Eskom calls on consumers to urgently switch off electrical heaters, geysers, pool pumps and all non-essential appliances. We require voluntary savings of at least 10% in order to manage demand.
 
We have noted rising demand especially during peak hours as the cold weather sets in.  Eskom is taking all necessary steps available to keep the lights on but we require partnership with our customers to ensure that we reduce electricity usage.  We are on track in terms of our planned maintenance schedule and have begun scaling it down to prepare for winter while also managing unplanned outages that add more pressure to an already tight system.
Eskom will utilise all necessary emergency resources at its disposal, but should the demand not decrease, load shedding will be implemented as a last resort to protect the national grid from a total shutdown.
 
In the event that load shedding becomes necessary, Eskom will use the published load shedding schedules which are available on the Eskom website (www.loadshedding.eskom.co.za) for Eskom customers.  Municipal customers are encouraged to consult their respective municipalities for their schedules.  Eskom customers can also contact our customer call centre 0860 037 566.
 
Eskom will provide regular updates on the status of the power system through various   media platforms throughout the day.