Eskom under severe pressure following breakdowns, inclement weather

It says four generation units broke down today while the return of two others has been delayed.

Spokesperson Sikonathi Mantshantsha says the cold and wet weather has pushed up the demand for electricity.

"Today (Monday) a generating unit each at Matla and Kriel power stations as well as two generating units at Camden Power Station experienced breakdowns. 

"Furthermore, a generating unit each at Tutuka and Matla power stations have been delayed from returning to service, contributing to the current shortage of capacity."

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Mantshantsha is asking us to reduce our usage while it works to return as many units as possible to service. 

"We urge the public to continue reducing electricity usage to help avoid the possibility of load shedding. However, should the situation deteriorate further, load shedding may need to be implemented at short notice, as a last resort, in order to protect the national grid. 

"We are presently relying on the adequate levels of emergency reserves to meet the country demand which are being carefully monitored.”