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Stage 2 load shedding to be implemented on Tuesday 18

Here we go again Mzansi. Eskom will be implementing Stage 2 load shedding on Tuesday 18 August and again on Wednesday 19 August.  

The power utility has put it down to severe constraints in the power generation system. 

STAGE 2 LOAD SHEDDING TO BE IMPLEMENTED ON TUESDAY AND WEDNESDAY 

According to Eskom, Stage 2 load shedding will be implemented from 16:00 until 22:00 on Tuesday 18 August. It will return on Wednesday 19 August starting at 9:00 until 22:00. 

“Yesterday [Monday 17 August], six generators were returned to service at Medupi, Tutuka, Kendal, Majuba and Grootvlei power stations. The breakdown of four units overnight and this morning at Medupi, Duvha, Majuba and Lethabo power stations, as well as, a delay in the expected return to service of a unit at Medupi has resulted in the power system being constrained,” it said in a statement. 

“Any further deterioration in the generation performance may, therefore, necessitate the escalation of load shedding at short notice,” it added. 

Referring to the cold front, Eskom said the aged generation infrastructure is unreliable and volatile and so the constrained power system is expected to persist for the rest of the week. 

Unplanned breakdowns stand at more than 11 900MW of capacity, adding to the 4 350MW currently out on planned maintenance. 

“We urge the people of South Africa to help reduce electricity usage in order to assist Eskom to reduce the instance of load shedding and keep the lights on,” it added. 

ESKOM WARNED OF POWER CUTS DUE TO COLD FRONT 

Shortly before the dreaded news of Stage 2 load shedding, Eskom released a statement warning its customers. 

It said the power system was severely constrained by broken down generation units and the cold front. 

Posting images of severe weather in the Eastern Cape, it said: 

“Eskom Eastern Cape warns of severe weather conditions including snow, strong winds and rain, affecting some of Eskom’s transmission and distribution infrastructure in Joubertina, Kareedouw and surrounds. Residents are urged to report  damaged [and] fallen conductors to Customer Services.” 

Here’s to checking our load shedding schedules.

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Tags: Eskomload sheddingSouth Africa



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