Eskom asks for reduced electricity usage
Eskom is calling on households and businesses to reduce their electricity usage to minimise the pressure on the national power grid.
The utility implemented Stage One load shedding yesterday. Officials said at the time there was a chance load shedding could continue into the weekend. Eskom says the workers strike has put unnecessary strain on the electricity supply leading to nationwide blackouts.
The parastatal's Dikatso Mothae says ordinary South Africans can help reduce demand.
"We ask all our customers to assist by reducing electricity consumption. They can do so by switching off geysers, electric heaters, pools pumps and all non-essential appliances", she said.
"Throughout the day we advise that people switch off all appliances like TVs etc, but most especially during evening peak periods between 5pm and 9pm", Mothae said.
Officials say they are doing all they can to keep the lights on.