JUST IN: Stage 2 load shedding set for Thursday evening

Eskom says the additional bout of stage 2 load shedding is necessary to manage and preserve pumped storage dam levels

Sep 8, 2022 - 15:49
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JUST IN: Stage 2 load shedding set for Thursday evening

Eskom has announced it will be implementing stage 2 load shedding on Thursday evening, 8 September 2022.

The embattled power utility had previously said load shedding would be enforced between 05:00 and 22:00, but will now continue throughout the night.

“In addition to the loadshedding currently underway, Eskom advises that Stage 2 loadshedding will be implemented throughout Thursday night (previously scheduled to stop at 22:00). Stage 2 loadshedding will then continue to be implemented at 05:00 – 22:00 daily as previously announced until Saturday night,” said Eskom spokesperson Sikonathi Mantshantsha.

ADDITIONAL LOAD SHEDDING REQUIRED FOR THURSDAY – ESKOM

Eskom says the additional bout of power cuts are necessary on Thursday, in order for it to manage and preserve the pumped storage dam levels, part of the emergency generation reserves, which have been utilised extensively over the past four days.

“We currently have 4 588MW on planned maintenance, while another 15 204MW of capacity is unavailable due to breakdowns. Eskom therefore urges all South Africans to continue using electricity sparingly, and will promptly communicate should there be any significant changes”

Eskom spokesperson Sikonathi Mantshantsha

It is no secret that the parastatal is in a state of crisis. In July, Ramaphosa unveiled his plan to turn things around at the utility, which is R400 billion in debt. National Treasury has also entered the fray. In addition, the South African Police Service has set up a special law enforcement team to assist Eskom in confronting crime and corruption, which has contributed to the power utility’s poor financial state.

“A number of people have been arrested in recent days and several others are already being prosecuted for corruption and fraud involving Eskom contracts,” said Ramaphosa during his televised address to the nation.

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