Eskom Adjusts Load-Shedding Schedule, Ensuring Short-term Relief

Eskom’s Power Management Update

Eskom has brought some good news to the citizens, announcing the temporary suspension of rotational power cuts at 01:35 on Sunday, 16 July 2023. The respite, courtesy of adequately replenished pumped storage dam levels, will last until 08:00.

“Load-shedding was suspended at 01:35 this morning,” Eskom reported.

Revised Load-Shedding Timetable

Despite the temporary reprieve, Eskom stated it will reinstate Stage 2 load-shedding from 08:00 until 16:00. The power utility will then ramp up to Stage 4 load-shedding, which will remain in effect until 05:00 on Monday.

The load-shedding timetable for Sunday, 16 July is as follows:

• 02:00 until 08:00 — No load-shedding
• 08:00 until 16:00 — Stage 2 load-shedding
• 16:00 until 05:00 – Stage 4 load-shedding (continuing into Monday morning)

Reason Behind Load-shedding

Eskom noted that the need for Stage 2 and Stage 4 load-shedding is tied to the ongoing requirement to replenish emergency diesel reserves at Open Cycle Gas Turbine (OCGT) power stations.

While the power utility stated, “The pumped storage dam levels have been adequately replenished for the week ahead. Diesel levels at the OCGT power stations have improved but remain low,” it highlights the necessity of maintaining a balance.

Weekend Load-Shedding and Weather Impact

Previously, on Thursday, 13 July, Eskom declared that it would maintain permanent Stage 6 load-shedding throughout the weekend to restore emergency reserves.

Eskom emphasized the importance of managing adequate generation reserves to accommodate unpredictable events, like the unprecedented surge in demand witnessed earlier this week due to inclement weather.

“The increase in the demand for electricity due to the cold weather, particularly on Monday and Tuesday, was anticipated,” Eskom said, adding, “However, this demand exceeded what was forecasted.”

Eskom ended up significantly tapping into emergency reserves on Monday and Tuesday, 9 and 10 July, to counterbalance the increased demand triggered by the cold weather.