Eskom’s Energy Roller Coaster: From Stage 2 to 4

Eskom’s Newest Load Shedding Game Plan

  • Tuesday, 29 August:
    • Stage 2: Until 16h00
    • Stage 4: 16h00 to 00h00
  • Wednesday, 30 August:
    • Stage 4: 00h00 to 05h00
    • Stage 2: 05h00 to 16h00
    • Stage 4: 16h00 to 00h00

Hold onto your hats folks! Eskom, our power utility mogul, has once again surprised us by escalating load shedding to stage 4 starting Tuesday evening. We’re now caught in a dance between stage 2 during daylight hours (05h00 – 16h00) and the formidable stage 4 after sunset (16h00 – 05h00). And this waltz will go on until Eskom cues the music off.

But what’s the reason behind this fluctuating power play? Three lost generating units overnight. A tough blow, forcing our daytime load shedding to jump to stage 2.

In Eskom’s words: “The implementation of the higher stages of load shedding is due to the loss of additional generation units over the past 24 hours however, Eskom will endeavour to reduce stages of load shedding where possible.”

The Power Grid Breakdown:

  • Down: A whopping 16,154MW due to breakdowns.
  • Out for Scheduled Maintenance: 5,970MW.

Not all’s grim though: units from Duvha, Kendal, and Majuba power stations have been resurrected. Yet, some units at various other stations, like Kusile and Matimba, have taken a backstage for repairs.

Also Read:   The Unseen Consequence: Load Shedding Impacts Waste Management

Eskom’s tip to us? With an evening peak demand forecast of 28,512MW, they’re urging us to cut back. So maybe, just maybe, consider giving some of your appliances a night off. After all, your toaster could use a break too!

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