Weekend Load Shedding Update

Unfortunately, it looks like you’ll have to be prepared for more of it this coming weekend, as Eskom will continue with load shedding at high stages.

What We Know So Far

According to a recent statement from Eskom, load shedding will range between stage 3 and stage 4 over the weekend, book-ended by stage 5 on Friday and Monday. Here’s a brief breakdown of Eskom’s weekend load shedding schedule:

Friday, 5 May:

• Stage 5: 16h00 to 00h00

Saturday, 6 May:

• Stage 5: 00h00 to 05h00
• Stage 3: 05h00 to 16h00
• Stage 4: 16h00 to 00h00

Sunday, 7 May:

• Stage 4: 00h00 to 05h00
• Stage 3: 05h00 to 16h00
• Stage 4: 16h00 to 00h00

Monday, 8 May:

• Stage 4: 00h00 to 16h00
• Stage 5: 16h00 to 00h00

Why It’s Happening

The power utility has cited lower weekend demand and the return to service of some generating units as reasons for the load shedding. However, breakdowns are currently at 17,245MW of generating capacity while the generating capacity out of service for planned maintenance is 4,468MW.

Since yesterday morning, a generating unit each at Hendrina, Lethabo and Tutuka power stations have returned to service.

What to Do

It’s important to be prepared for load shedding to prevent any inconvenience, damage to appliances or work that might be lost due to sudden loss of power. Here are a few precautions you can take:

• Charge all your devices, such as phones and laptops, in advance
• Keep some cash at home, in case credit card machines aren’t working
• Have a torch or candles ready
• Unplug all appliances to avoid damage when the power comes back on

Stay Informed

Eskom has committed to publishing further updates as soon as any significant changes occur, so be sure to keep an eye out for these updates. For now, stay safe and prepare for the worst, in case Eskom’s predictions do come to pass.