Stage 4 blackouts to last until Wednesday amid labour dispute at Eskom

The power utility has blamed the rolling blackouts on industrial action at various power stations, saying it has impacted planned maintenance and repairs.

Eskom spokesperson Sikonathi Mantshantsha says the full staff complement has also not reported for duty at a number of power stations.

“As a result, unplanned generation losses have not been reduced as planned, which has compelled Eskom to continue taking precautionary measures to conserve generation capacity and safeguard plant from damage.” 

Mantshantsha warns there is a possibility that the stage of load shedding may have to change at short notice, depending on the state of the plant and the availability of labour.

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“Currently approximately 4 000MW of generation capacity is at risk due to the illegal strike action. It is therefore necessary to replenish emergency generation reserves to be able to react to unforeseen circumstances. 

“Adequate emergency reserves are crucial to assist with the generation deficit while dealing with generating units that may trip owing to unlawful action, and to compensate for the inability to return generating units timorously to service.”

Eskom is currently involved in protracted wage talks with unions, including the National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (Numsa). 

The utility reported several incidents linked to the strike last week, including some workers blocking access to power stations and the intimidation of managers and other staff who reported for duty.

“Eskom appeals to its labour partners and striking employees to put the people of South Africa first, respect the law and to desist from unlawful and undemocratic conduct,” Mantshantsha says.

“The labour dispute resolution process must be allowed to run its course without illegal acts of intimidation and damage to property. Eskom will consider all legal options at its disposal for damage caused or incited by union representatives.”