Eskom warns of high risk of load shedding amid generation unit breakdowns

Eskom has issued a warning about a high risk of load shedding this evening due to multiple generation unit breakdowns across its power stations. The struggling power utility has cautioned that if additional megawatts are lost, stage 2 load shedding could be implemented on short notice.

Grid Under Severe Strain

According to Eskom spokesperson Daphney Mokoena, the power system is under severe strain following the loss of several generation units over the past 12 hours.

“Over the past 12 hours, six generation units have been taken offline, placing severe strain on the power system and requiring the use of emergency reserves.”

Eskom is currently working to return seven units to service but warns that if an additional 800 megawatts (MW) are lost, it will be forced to implement stage 2 load shedding.

“If an additional 800MW is lost, Eskom will be compelled to implement stage 2 load shedding at short notice.”

High risk of load shedding

What This Means for South Africans

Should Eskom fail to recover enough capacity, stage 2 load shedding will mean two to four hours of power cuts per day for households and businesses.

South Africans have been dealing with persistent load shedding for several years, with power outages affecting homes, businesses, and essential services.

With winter approaching, electricity demand is expected to rise, putting even more pressure on the grid.

Ongoing Challenges at Eskom

Eskom’s power generation crisis is not new, and the utility continues to struggle with:

• Aging power plants that frequently break down.

• Delays in maintenance and repairs at key power stations.

• Coal supply issues affecting several units.

• Corruption and mismanagement, which have worsened its operational challenges.

Despite efforts to improve the situation, Eskom has failed to stabilise the grid, leaving South Africans frustrated and businesses struggling to stay afloat.

Government’s Response

The South African government has repeatedly promised to address the energy crisis, with initiatives such as:

• The Energy Action Plan, aimed at increasing renewable energy supply and fixing Eskom’s existing fleet.

• Private sector involvement, allowing independent power producers to contribute to the grid.

• New emergency power procurement, though many of these projects have faced delays.

However, these solutions take time, and immediate relief remains uncertain.

How to Prepare for Load Shedding

With the possibility of power cuts tonight, here are some tips to prepare:

1. Check the Load Shedding Schedule

• Download the Eskom Se Push app or visit Eskom’s website to stay updated.

• Municipal customers should check their local municipality schedules.

2. Charge Devices and Power Banks

• Ensure your phone, laptop, and emergency lights are fully charged.

• Consider investing in uninterrupted power supplies (UPS) for your Wi-Fi router.

3. Plan Meals in Advance

• Cook meals ahead of time if necessary.

• Use gas stoves or portable burners during outages.

4. Keep Emergency Lights Ready

• Have battery-powered torches or solar lanterns available.

• Avoid using candles to prevent fire hazards.

5. Secure Your Home

• Ensure security systems and electric gates have backup power.

• Charge rechargeable LED bulbs to keep lights on during outages.

Looking Ahead

While Eskom is working to return lost units to service, the risk of load shedding remains high.

South Africans are advised to stay informed, plan accordingly, and continue to push for long-term energy solutions.

With the country’s power crisis far from over, businesses and households must adapt and explore alternative energy sources to reduce dependence on Eskom.