Eskom will implement stage 1 load shedding and curtailment from 17:00 today, which is likely to continue until 22:00 this evening. This is due to the shortage of generating capacity as several units are currently out of service due to maintenance.

Any unexpected changes on the vulnerable and constrained power system could lead to a change in the load shedding stage at short notice.

The electricity system remains significantly constrained today and leading into the weekend, as well as next week as demand surpasses available supply.  Eskom calls on all customers to reduce the load on the electricity grid by urgently switching off geysers, air conditioners, pool pumps and all non-essential appliances throughout the day, which will reduce electricity demand.

Commercial customers, particularly shopping centres and office blocks, can also make a big difference by switching off non-essential lights and not leaving office equipment such as photocopiers and computers in standby mode after hours.

Eskom will use the published load shedding schedules which are available on the Eskom website (http://loadshedding.eskom.co.za) for Eskom customers.  Eskom customers can also contact our customer call centre 0860 037 566.

Municipal customers should contact their municipalities for information.

Eskom will provide regular updates on the status of the power system through all the media platforms.

Issued by Eskom