Load Shedding - the all in one thread

[nic777]

Load shedding areas…
The City have come up with a website where you can put in your suburb and street address and then get a report of the possible outages.
You can indicate your exact location on the map with a little cross.
This will come on stream properly next week, but in the meantime, have a look at this link! (The Eskom areas had not yet been added when my source went to “print”).

http://www.giscoews.com/loadshed

[hj2k_x]

They have been scheduling outages for weeks now according to their site, but so far, happily, nothing!

[lilDeath]

oh yippee, the thread's been revived...
Wonder if 'they' can "sticky" it for us Capies...
Mite need the URL in the future...

[biltonguy]

I take it that it is refering to the current week?

[ambo]

Was driving from the East Rand into Jozi last night and I noticed a HUGE number of streetlights that are out.

Now City-Power and its brothers out in the East have been shown to be pretty incompetant recently - but do you think that it is possible that they are actually conciously turning off the streetlights in order to load shed on their networks?

Just a brain fart I had while I was driving - it almost seems to clever for them to have thought of.

[Tux]

Or, the cables could have been stolen

[Leitmotif]

Lot of lights out in centurion last night as well. Might well be loadshedding. Who knows.

[stoke]

They probably are, which is the dumbest thing ever, starting those streetlights consumes around 4 hours of running light, so they must turn them off for at least 4 hours to make this a worthwhile exercise.

I'd bet somebody somewhere buggered something up by trying to leech electricity off of the street light circuit.

[LosRoques]

I think we are being kept in the dark regarding the severity of the power problem...

[Syndyre]

They probably are, which is the dumbest thing ever, starting those streetlights consumes around 4 hours of running light, so they must turn them off for at least 4 hours to make this a worthwhile exercise.

I'd bet somebody somewhere buggered something up by trying to leech electricity off of the street light circuit.

Overall consumption doesn't really matter though, as long as its not at peak times, if they consume more power during lower demand periods its still better.

[stoke]

Gewd point. Lets install big heater's on every street to consume the excess electricity during lower demand periods.

Or .. even better .. lets charge different rates for different times .. na .. too obvious.

[Moederloos]

I think we are being kept in the dark regarding the severity of the power problem...

lol.

[Tux]

Or .. even better .. lets charge different rates for different times .. na .. too obvious.

wouldn't be accepted because it might actually solve a few problems. too sensible

[Moederloos]

wouldn't be accepted because it might actually solve a few problems. too sensible

City Power actually has a booklet that indicates tariff amounts for different times in different seasons - however, does this actually work?

Let people hook their geysers and pool pumps to a council suppliedunit that only allows the device to run outside peak hours, and get a saving of 10% on power costs, and people would use it (well, I would).

[Syndyre]

Gewd point. Lets install big heater's on every street to consume the excess electricity during lower demand periods.

Or .. even better .. lets charge different rates for different times .. na .. too obvious.

I really don't know why they don't implement the second one.

[ambo]

I really don't know why they don't implement the second one.I think the main reason is that it would require an upgrade of all the meters. A large portion of JHB is still using the mechanical spinning disk type meter that is not able to differentiate on the usage time. There are new areas that have the electronic meters (generally prepaid users) but i'm not sure if even those meters are capable of time based tarriffs.

[Moederloos]

I think the main reason is that it would require an upgrade of all the meters. A large portion of JHB is still using the mechanical spinning disk type meter that is not able to differentiate on the usage time. There are new areas that have the electronic meters (generally prepaid users) but i'm not sure if even those meters are capable of time based tarriffs.

Ambo - while I agree with that, surely it is cheaper to replace the meters than build more stations that are only going to be needed for 4 hours a day?
Not that I am saying we do not need more stations, because we do. However, we should not be funding stations that are only needed because of peak hour demand.

[Syndyre]

I think the main reason is that it would require an upgrade of all the meters. A large portion of JHB is still using the mechanical spinning disk type meter that is not able to differentiate on the usage time. There are new areas that have the electronic meters (generally prepaid users) but i'm not sure if even those meters are capable of time based tarriffs.

Its still going to be cheaper for the economy and better for everyone than major rolling blackouts and load shedding for the next few years. Government has got us into this mess, now they need to fix it.

[LosRoques]

Had a chat to a senior consultant for our electricity supplier and fact is things are not going to get better in the next 5 to 8 years. Even if we do manage to save power during peak times, our demand growth is exponential and there is no new power being generated. By next year winter the demand will be much higher than this year and loadshedding will take place more regularly - and the next year more etc etc... On that first cold night a few weeks ago South Africa was on the verge of a NATIONAL Blackout as the whole grid almost collapsed...

[Syndyre]

Had a chat to a senior consultant for our electricity supplier and fact is things are not going to get better in the next 5 to 8 years. Even if we do manage to save power during peak times, our demand growth is exponential and there is no new power being generated. By next year winter the demand will be much higher than this year and loadshedding will take place more regularly - and the next year more etc etc... On that first cold night a few weeks ago South Africa was on the verge of a NATIONAL Blackout as the whole grid almost collapsed...

They definitely need to build more power stations, and quickly. Stop propping up Zim with power as well. The incompetence amazes me though. What almost triggered the collapse, excess demand?

[stoke]

The other side of the problem is that alternate sources of heat are overpriced.
9KB of LP Gas is sitting at around R150, forcing us to go back to electricity. SERIOUSLY OVERPRICED!

Then there's the problem of people using heaters that consume electricity like there is no tomorrow that are horribly inefficient, while at the same time using the heaters in a location that does not cocoon the heat.

[Syndyre]

The other side of the problem is that alternate sources of heat are overpriced.
9KB of LP Gas is sitting at around R150, forcing us to go back to electricity. SERIOUSLY OVERPRICED!

Then there's the problem of people using heaters that consume electricity like there is no tomorrow that are horribly inefficient, while at the same time using the heaters in a location that does not cocoon the heat.

There's also a shortage of gas now, had trouble getting some the other day.

[a-person]

Reading what you all say... and who says we live in a first world country?

[Moederloos]

Reading what you all say... and who says we live in a first world country?

Blinkered ANC supporters.

[CathJ]

Was driving from the East Rand into Jozi last night and I noticed a HUGE number of streetlights that are out.

Now City-Power and its brothers out in the East have been shown to be pretty incompetant recently - but do you think that it is possible that they are actually conciously turning off the streetlights in order to load shed on their networks?

Just a brain fart I had while I was driving - it almost seems to clever for them to have thought of.

I doubt it. There was something in the news a while ago, about how they leave streetlights on during the day even - the complaint was, obviously, that this uses a lot of electricity. They claimed that they leave them on to show that the cables are live, to prevent the cables being stolen.

On the other hand, they're perfectly capable of doing two contradictory things at the same time, so your theory might be right after all...

[BCO]

Why don't they replace all the street light bulbs with CFLs or LEDs? That would save a ***house full of electricity.

[ambo]

Why don't they replace all the street light bulbs with CFLs or LEDs? That would save a ***house full of electricity.They are already in the process of converting the traffic lights to LED technology and saving loads of power on that. Not sure that the light from LEDs would be of a suitable quality to provide safe lighting conditions on the roads.

I don't know exact figures but I am sure that the efficiency of the lamps used for streetlighting is comparable to the efficiency from CFLs and the streetlamps are also considerably higher density light producers than what is possible with CFL.

[stoke]

provide safe lighting conditions on the roadsHU? What is that?

[LosRoques]

South Africa is on one electricity grid with different sectors - that night the sudden high demand made certain sectors collapse which in turn almost made the complete grid collapse. A few people in key positions were responsible for the load shedding - if they had not made the right calls at the right time, South Africa would have had a national power cut. This is not something new as parts of Brazil and Florida State in the USA have had similar experiences.

[LosRoques]

I dont think street lights are going to save us from darkness. It is domestic heat generating appliances that are the problem - that and the growth...

[Syndyre]

South Africa is on one electricity grid with different sectors - that night the sudden high demand made certain sectors collapse which in turn almost made the complete grid collapse. A few people in key positions were responsible for the load shedding - if they had not made the right calls at the right time, South Africa would have had a national power cut. This is not something new as parts of Brazil and Florida State in the USA have had similar experiences.

Guess we got lucky then, probably won't be so lucky next time though.


I dont think street lights are going to save us from darkness. It is domestic heat generating appliances that are the problem - that and the growth...

The government should really be promoting and providing cheap gas as an alternative then, convince people to switch off electric heaters alone and you'd have a huge drop in consumption.

[LosRoques]

If you do the energy conversion Gas is still cheaper than electricity for Heating Water and Cooking. Unfortunately gas goes up and down as petrol does as it is a by-product of crude oil.. However Eskom has indicated that in the next 5 years our electricity will double in price per unit to be on par with the rest of the world. If that happens gas is the way to go! Thats if the petrol price does not double in the next 5 years:sick:

[Syndyre]

If you do the energy conversion Gas is still cheaper than electricity for Heating Water and Cooking. Unfortunately gas goes up and down as petrol does as it is a by-product of crude oil.. However Eskom has indicated that in the next 5 years our electricity will double in price per unit to be on par with the rest of the world. If that happens gas is the way to go! Thats if the petrol price does not double in the next 5 years:sick:

What I mean is seeing as the SA government got us into this electricity mess they should subsidise gas or at least zero rate it for tax, VAT and duties. I don't think the oil price is likely to double, quite a few non-Middle East supplies now too that should help, especially ones in Alberta etc. that are viable at current prices even if they weren't at lower ones.

[BCO]

Consumers also have a role to play in this by making efficient use of electricity.

[LosRoques]

Well this is off their website - "educating" us on how to save:
1 Cover your electric geyser in blankets and use less hot water
2 Try not to use your electric stove. Cook with microwave ovens, toasters and bottle warmers
3 Don’t open your fridge unnecessarily and replace door seals
4 Put your heater on a low setting and sit as close to it as possible
5 Store hot water from the kettle in flasks
And many more useful tips

I think some suggestions are dangerous - not mentioning un-practical.

If they spent the maintenance budget in upgrading and planning we would not have been in this situation - "All this money for maintenance?? But nothing is broken???"

[Syndyre]

Consumers also have a role to play in this by making efficient use of electricity.

I'm sick of hearing about our role etc, I expect a constant supply of electricity and I'm prepared to pay for it, what should my role be beyond that? Maybe if they cracked down on all the people using illegal connections etc. that'd be a good start?

[Syndyre]

Well this is off their website - "educating" us on how to save:
1 Cover your electric geyser in blankets and use less hot water
2 Try not to use your electric stove. Cook with microwave ovens, toasters and bottle warmers
3 Don’t open your fridge unnecessarily and replace door seals
4 Put your heater on a low setting and sit as close to it as possible
5 Store hot water from the kettle in flasks
And many more useful tips

I think some suggestions are dangerous - not mentioning un-practical.

If they spent the maintenance budget in upgrading and planning we would not have been in this situation - "All this money for maintenance?? But nothing is broken???"

Who actually lives like that? Seriously. Should we also break out the candles and only cook over an open fire? :rolleyes: How exactly can you cook with a toaster anyway???

[Hot_Chocolate]

Well this is off their website - "educating" us on how to save:
1 Cover your electric geyser in blankets and use less hot water
2 Try not to use your electric stove. Cook with microwave ovens, toasters and bottle warmers
3 Don’t open your fridge unnecessarily and replace door seals
4 Put your heater on a low setting and sit as close to it as possible
5 Store hot water from the kettle in flasks
And many more useful tips

I think some suggestions are dangerous - not mentioning un-practical.

If they spent the maintenance budget in upgrading and planning we would not have been in this situation - "All this money for maintenance?? But nothing is broken???"


roflmao! I would like to see them try some of these suggestions. How do you cook with a bottle warmer? And does a heater not use the same amount of energy regardless of the setting? I would rather say put it on high for a short while in a room where the heat will be trapped.

Wonder who thought up all these "clever" suggestions?

[Syndyre]

Wonder who thought up all these "clever" suggestions?

The same guy that did Eskom's generation capacity planning. :rolleyes:

[LosRoques]

Well the guy that should have done the planning is somewhere in a first world country earning a market related salary - he left long ago:(
All we can do now is improvise and prepare ourselves for real african conditions;) Gas - Generator - UPS - Solar (if you can afford it) and use Electricity when it's available. See it as an adventure:)

[Moederloos]

Well this is off their website - "educating" us on how to save:
1 Cover your electric geyser in blankets and use less hot water
2 Try not to use your electric stove. Cook with microwave ovens, toasters and bottle warmers
3 Don’t open your fridge unnecessarily and replace door seals
4 Put your heater on a low setting and sit as close to it as possible
5 Store hot water from the kettle in flasks
And many more useful tips

I think some suggestions are dangerous - not mentioning un-practical.

If they spent the maintenance budget in upgrading and planning we would not have been in this situation - "All this money for maintenance?? But nothing is broken???"

ok,
from what I hear (and I have no knowledge on this one) - a geyser is pressurised and double walled - there is no proof that geyser blankets work - and note: GEYSER blankets - no, your down duvet will not work! I would even go so far as to say the energy expended in manufacturing and transporting the "blankets" outweighs any potential saving.
#2 is plain stupid - the best said the better.
#3 is valid - same as "replace a washer on a dripping tap"
#4 - yeah - could work. Just not practical - also, quite likely to get sick easier that way.
#5: sure - could work - in fact some people do this anyways. HOWEVER, I cannot see what you are really saving - a kettle probably uses 1kW for 3 minutes. every two hours. Big deal.

[BCO]

I'm sick of hearing about our role etc, I expect a constant supply of electricity and I'm prepared to pay for it, what should my role be beyond that? Maybe if they cracked down on all the people using illegal connections etc. that'd be a good start?

Your role beyond just paying for electricity is to use it wisely and not waste. At the end of the day, efficient use of electricity will save you money, reduce strain on the grid and reduce your impact on the environment. What's wrong with that exactly?

People who leave the lights/heater/TV on in rooms that are empty; who use incandescent bulbs instead of CFLs etc. and thgen bitch about electricity supply shortages are almost as much to blame as Eskom. I'm not saying Eskom's done nothing wrong, but if every South African electricity consumer reduced their consumption by 10-20%, it would make a huge difference to the stability of our supply.

Furthermore, there are many ways to improve your efficiency that don't mean having to reduce your quality of life or having to mission too much.

[Moederloos]

Your role beyond just paying for electricity is to use it wisely and not waste. At the end of the day, efficient use of electricity will save you money, reduce strain on the grid and reduce your impact on the environment. What's wrong with that exactly?

People who leave the lights/heater/TV on in rooms that are empty; who use incandescent bulbs instead of CFLs etc. and thgen bitch about electricity supply shortages are almost as much to blame as Eskom. I'm not saying Eskom's done nothing wrong, but if every South African electricity consumer reduced their consumption by 10-20%, it would make a huge difference to the stability of our supply.

Furthermore, there are many ways to improve your efficiency that don't mean having to reduce your quality of life or having to mission too much.


I agree.
I am an electricity-saving fiend. Not so much to "help" Eskom, but because, at the end of the day, its my money!

I get really annoyed with lights left on, heaters on when no one is using them, PCs left on for no reason, TV left on, fridge door left open while someone "looks for what they want", deep freeze left open while being packed, oven left on once cooking is done - sheesh, the list is endless.
All the above is simple waste - by NOT doing the above, we, as a household, save money - the fact that Eskom has less load is secondary. :-)

[BCO]

I agree.
I am an electricity-saving fiend. Not so much to "help" Eskom, but because, at the end of the day, its my money!

I get really annoyed with lights left on, heaters on when no one is using them, PCs left on for no reason, TV left on, fridge door left open while someone "looks for what they want", deep freeze left open while being packed, oven left on once cooking is done - sheesh, the list is endless.
All the above is simple waste - by NOT doing the above, we, as a household, save money - the fact that Eskom has less load is secondary. :-)

Precisely.

[Syndyre]

Your role beyond just paying for electricity is to use it wisely and not waste. At the end of the day, efficient use of electricity will save you money, reduce strain on the grid and reduce your impact on the environment. What's wrong with that exactly?

People who leave the lights/heater/TV on in rooms that are empty; who use incandescent bulbs instead of CFLs etc. and thgen bitch about electricity supply shortages are almost as much to blame as Eskom. I'm not saying Eskom's done nothing wrong, but if every South African electricity consumer reduced their consumption by 10-20%, it would make a huge difference to the stability of our supply.

Furthermore, there are many ways to improve your efficiency that don't mean having to reduce your quality of life or having to mission too much.

Sure but they're not "to blame". I do most of the above anyway, but my point is that electricity's a commodity and as long as people are prepared to pay for it it should be available to them and in the case of a highly regulated, monopolistic environment like SA's its the responsibility of the government to ensure its availability. Obviously it makes sense to use all resources efficiently and not waste, but your argument is a bit like blaming fat people for a food shortage. :D

[Moederloos]

Precisely.

Quick calc:
We have 5 * 40W downlights in our kitchen = 200W an hour.
In 5 hours, thats 1Kw, or in 20 hours, it would use 4Kw, or R2 a day.
Leaving just the kitchen light on all the time would cost me R60 per month.

300W PC = 8Kw per day = R120 per month.

(My brain feels fuzzy today - feel free to correct the calcs).

[-toady-]

I'm sick of hearing about our role etc, I expect a constant supply of electricity and I'm prepared to pay for it, what should my role be beyond that? Maybe if they cracked down on all the people using illegal connections etc. that'd be a good start?

Efficient use of electricity bah!... as I type this the Freeway lights burn 24/7 and street lights all over Durban are burning. Lead by example maybe....

toady:D

[LosRoques]

Your calculations seem accurate.
I lived on a sailing yacht for 3 years and if there is anyone that saves water and electricity it's me. I drive those around me nuts.
Fact is that we are a few people with a bit of brains that consider these things - there are millions that couldnt give a rat's @ss. Most people stay in flats or townhouses where they pay an average rate shared amongst the tennants and even if one household tries to save, another might forget the hose open before going away for a weekend...
Equipment today is much more energy efficient than what it was 10/20 years ago (fridges etc.) Microwaves save a lot of energy. So we have unknowingly decreased our individual consumption. The number of ppl and users have increased. Fact is: Eksom didnt keep up. They make money out of elec and now they are trying to teach ppl how to save it? The other night when we were in the red they said to switch off unnecessary equipment like TV's. Now how do you watch further to monitor the situation?:p

[BCO]

Quick calc:
We have 5 * 40W downlights in our kitchen = 200W an hour (or 0.2 kWh).
In 5 hours, thats 1kWh, or in 20 hours, it would use 4kWh, or R2 a day.
Leaving just the kitchen light on all the time would cost me R60 per month.

300W PC = 7.2 kWh = R120 per month.

(My brain feels fuzzy today - feel free to correct the calcs).

Corrected (I think). Not sure about how much we pay per kWh of electricity atm.

[JTech]

To answer some questions about the loadshedding system:

The streetlights are on during the day because of faulty receivers and corrupt data being sent down the mains. Do you honestly think a wire being live will prevent it's theft. All they do is short it out so it trips the circuit breaker and that's the end of it.


I think the main reason is that it would require an upgrade of all the meters. A large portion of JHB is still using the mechanical spinning disk type meter that is not able to differentiate on the usage time. There are new areas that have the electronic meters (generally prepaid users) but i'm not sure if even those meters are capable of time based tarriffs.

The data is already there, on the mains, they just have to install a ripple-capable kWh meter, which are available and have been for many years. Nope, easier to shove money into pocket than to spend on upgrading all the meters in JHB. Hell they won't even replace the old ripple receivers which are dangerous as they contain radioactive materials. Honestly, how can you expect them to implement multi-tarriffs then?


They are already in the process of converting the traffic lights to LED technology and saving loads of power on that. Not sure that the light from LEDs would be of a suitable quality to provide safe lighting conditions on the roads

They're converting the traffic lights to LED to avoid bulb-changes. The bulbs don't last and they're too lazy to replace them so they figure they'll rather put in LED replacements. As for street lighting, they are already more efficient than incandescent bulbs so what is the problem? Street lights are required to meet various SABS specs, and I know this because I install them.

[kokzn]

http://loadshedding.eskom.co.za/

http://mybroadband.co.za/photos/showphoto.php?photo=1442&cat=500 (http://mybroadband.co.za/photos/showphoto.php?photo=1442&cat=500)
Service unavailable! :eek:

[milomak]

Yep even the site is loadshedding

[bwana]

Hopefully they'll pass us by for once.

[ldmelsa]

http://loadshedding.eskom.co.za/load_shedding.htm

[poolmania]

....the bloody traffic cops to help out at Traffic lights when they are down. I remember a few years back when any major traffic light that was faulty had a traffic cop on the scene directing traffic, what has happened to this...:mad:

[Tux]

taking bribes and/or sleeping somewhere cozy while waiting for your shift to end VS. boring duty at a busted traffic light...

[The_Librarian]

taking bribes and/or sleeping somewhere cozy while waiting for your shift to end VS. boring duty at a busted traffic light...

:D:D:D:D

Would do the same.

After all, it's not a safe job, you get yobs and roadhogs who ignore you... or try to run you down.

[Dusk]

After all, it's not a safe job, you get yobs and roadhogs who ignore you... or try to run you down.

It wasnt on purpose !!
Thats my story and im sticking to it . ;)

[poolmania]

:D:D:D:D

Would do the same.

After all, it's not a safe job, you get yobs and roadhogs who ignore you... or try to run you down.

:D That sounds like an exciting job, not dull at all....:D

[timgaul]

I believe manning a road block some 500m from the traffic light... Why actually do some real work when you can get money for pulling over soft targets?

Besides, there is never any traffic in Sandton right?

[Moederloos]

I believe manning a road block some 500m from the traffic light... Why actually do some real work when you can get money for pulling over soft targets?

Besides, there is never any traffic in Sandton right?

You jest? This is precisely what happened to my wife yesterday.

Robots out in Mellville and all down Beyer's, and then near to Cresta a roadblock.

[Highflyer_GP]

We just had a power outage in Southern Jhb. Has anybody else had any failures recently?

According to the schedule (http://www.eskom.co.za/live/loadshed.php?Item_ID=3985) on the Eskom site, the current time for our area means that we fall under Brown Stage 2, which means that they are experiencing a shortfall of between 1500MW and 3000MW. lol @ Eskom

[hashbrown99]

I know it's coming just not when. See headline article posted on News24.com

http://www.fin24.co.za/articles/default/display_article.aspx?Nav=ns&ArticleID=1518-25_2228503

[rph72]

My area in Cape Town went out at 19.30.

[The_Librarian]

Nothing to report here from Silverton, Pta :)

Hope Ghastlyfontein still have power - doing backups remotely... *sigh*

[HavocXphere]

Just like the lotto, only without the money.


Has load shedding made a return?
For the next 7 years yes.:(

[wcoetzee]

CT, GoodWood down:(

[PostmanPot]

<- Haven't had any power outs for months... *touch wood* :D

[BTTB]

CT, GoodWood down:(
I don't get it?

Why is The Cape still experiences Load Shedding?
Is Eskom not telling us something about Koeberg? I pose this question as memory serves, Reactor 2 was shut down in August for maintenance and was supposed to be restarted by October.
I realise there are other Power Stations in Gauteng that had/have problems, but as far as I know The Cape, far from Gauteng, relies mostly on Koeberg for it's 1800MW (2x900MW) plus Acacia, Palmiet and now the two 1000MW Gas Turbines at Mossel Bay and Atlantis. We shouldn't be short, unless one or more of the Koeberg Reactors are out? In which case extra power is routed from Gauteng, which is apparently short on capacity for the moment, which would mean Load Shedding for The Cape, if one or more of the Reactors is out or up for maintenance.
Technicalities aside, is Koeberg running at 100&#37;. Does anybody know?

[walterl]

Boksburg was "loadshedded" last night (Tuesday) from about 9pm to 9:30pm. Not sure how that 30 minutes helped eskom...

[McSack]

...we fall under Brown Stage 2, which means that ...

Amusing colour choice by Escum. :D

What number is deep brown ??

[McSack]

We just had a power outage in Southern Jhb.

Hey my old stomping ground. Been a while since I've come across someone actually admitting to be from The South in public ;)

[Highflyer_GP]

Hey my old stomping ground. Been a while since I've come across someone actually admitting to be from The South in public ;)

Lol yeah we'll leave it at South and not specify any area :D

Deep brown would probably be stage 3 ;)

[JohnnyG]

Just like the lotto, only without the money.


For the next 7 years yes.:(

Everyone can do their bit to make a small difference. Turn off unused items, etc.

There is a whole list of things you can do to save electricity at www.SavePower.co.za (http://www.SavePower.co.za)

[bwana]

Everyone can do their bit to make a small difference. Turn off unused items, etc.

There is a whole list of things you can do to save electricity at www.SavePower.co.za (http://www.SavePower.co.za)Google AdSense spam. :rolleyes:

http://za.blackle.com/ seems to be able to do it without the ads - though if you use a LCD then its pretty much pointless isnt it?

[JohnnyG]

Google AdSense spam. :rolleyes:

http://za.blackle.com/ seems to be able to do it without the ads - though if you use a LCD then its pretty much pointless isnt it?


??? http://za.blackle.com/ is full of adsense ads. Not sure what you mean here...

Blackle.com is a little too black for me, no colour, no life, no real tips on how to save power. SavePower.co.za is all about the power saving tips, and how to actually help promote power saving.

PS: Yes, power saving on LCD's is very minimal , black over white.

[bwana]

??? http://za.blackle.com/ is full of adsense ads. Not sure what you mean here...

Blackle.com is a little too black for me, no colour, no life, no real tips on how to save power. SavePower.co.za is all about the power saving tips, and how to actually help promote power saving.

PS: Yes, power saving on LCD's is very minimal , black over white.Guess my host file is working as blackle is pristine :D

edit - I dont see any ads on blackle.com's search page on any of my machines. :confused:

[JohnnyG]

Guess my host file is working as blackle is pristine :D

edit - I dont see any ads on blackle.com's search page on any of my machines. :confused:

No, haha. U obviously don't know (yet) how AdSense works.

AdSense is how google make all (most) of their money. For example, if you go to http://za.blackle.com/ and do a search for "property" for example, the first few results are presented in a box labled "Ads by Google".

These are AdSense adverts.

http://SavePower.co.za also servers similar relevant ads to cover costs. These ads are not obtrusive to the user, but actually help the user find what they are looking for.

This is not different from searching http://www.google.co.za , as ads are displayed in exactly the same way there too.

[teraside]

We also had a power cut last night at around 7pm, it was off for an hour ;)

[bodhi]

No power outages where I'm at (for the moment that is :D)

[Highflyer_GP]

Yippee it's out again :(

[teraside]

Yippee it's out again :(

You're kidding? That sucks man, I hope it stays on where I live, I don't have a generator.

[bwana]

No, haha. U obviously don't know (yet) how AdSense works.Maybe, maybe not but I know when not to ignore a warning regarding signature rules.

Just in case you missed it . . . forum members are permitted one commercial link in their signature provided that link isnt included in the body of the message.

Furthermore kindly refrain from resurrecting old threads in an attempt to direct traffic to [-]the[/-] your site.

[rph72]

WTF, here we go again!!!

[bwana]

WTF, here we go again!!!Did you get shed-upon?

[Highflyer_GP]

You're kidding? That sucks man, I hope it stays on where I live, I don't have a generator.

lol I don't have one either :(

Care to lend us yours bwana? :)

[JohnnyG]

Maybe, maybe not but I know when not to ignore a warning regarding signature rules.

Just in case you missed it . . . forum members are permitted one commercial link in their signature provided that link isnt included in the body of the message.

Furthermore kindly refrain from resurrecting old threads in an attempt to direct traffic to [-]the[/-] your site.

Ignore a warning? Eeshs bro... :eek: when did that happen?
All I got (after your comment) wasa message saying why my signature has been edited. There was no warning. Anyway, its fixed now, so I don't see why you feel the need to hijack this thread, and make a big issue about it.

The real issue is that Eskom simply doesn't have the power the country demands. A site has been setup in a drive to get people to conserve energy. This will benefit everyone.

Don't make something positive out to be something negative, please.

[labratza]

Edenvale Jhb havent had one for about 2 weeks now and dnt want TOUCH WOOD

[rph72]

yes, got shed-upon.

[vespax]

UCT went out at the wrong time of my day. :(

[labratza]

lol why wrong time?

[ToxicBunny]

Muthertrucker...

Power just went out here... ffs

[rph72]

Can someone please fire ESKOM??

[Highflyer_GP]

Can someone please fire ESKOM??

Oi don't mention 'fire' and 'Eskom' in the same sentence - that might just happen and then we'll be permanently out of power! :p

[bwana]

A site has been setup in a drive to get people to conserve energy. This will benefit everyone.

Don't make something positive out to be something negative, please.Indeed - how wonderfully altruistic of you. Keep up the good work.

Now back to the topic at hand - load-shedding. . .
Care to lend us yours bwana? :)Sorry - but they're going to get around to me sooner or later. We were out all day yesterday for scheduled maintenance so maybe they're going to pass us by for a few days. . . . :o

The thing is so tiny that I'm really going to have to invest in something a bit more substantial one of these days.

[JohnnyG]

Oi don't mention 'fire' and 'Eskom' in the same sentence - that might just happen and then we'll be permanently out of power! :p

hahahaha!!! ...no.. wait. DONT joke!!! :mad: There goes MY power !! :(

[rph72]

What happened to the supply & demand rule?

It is absolutely weird that they blame the consumer for using to much electricity. We pay for what we use and them you have the others that get it for free.

[ToxicBunny]

supply and demand is skewed in this country....

Just live with it... its with us for at least another 7 years, maybe longer.

[Highflyer_GP]

Cool mine's back up :)

Wonder if they're going to shed on the 46664 concert on Saturday, or if they'll pull a Kingsmead special :D

[rph72]

Mine is back up too, yay...
Just in time for Jericho.

[Brawler]

damn, half of East London was out this evening, mine has just come on now

[ToxicBunny]

I hateses you all.... mine is still out....

AND i'm literally in spitting distance of Megawatt park.... i think I need to go and put an errant bolt in there somewhere.

[qDot]

Back online, yay!

[Borg]

Load ****ting currently underway in Centurion.

If this happens during sunny skies, the logical deduction would be that we are in for a few rough winters ahead.

Anyone still wonder why they call it "Dark" Africa?

[pope24]

Sandton as well. Thank god for Vodacom or else I would be on my way home.

[Ady]

I wish it would happen here so i can go home, i feel very tired today.

[trek_mambo]

Eskom 'Load-Shedding' (http://www.fin24.co.za/articles/default/display_article.aspx?Nav=ns&ArticleID=1518-25_2236152)

I have in recent times read a few articles in the news concerning the current load-shedding and how Eskom switches electricity off in certain regions because of various reasons.

In my local area many regions have been affected including my own.

My question is simple... Is Eskom going the way of Enron and simply trying to push prices up or is it really necessary to turn the whole damn country's electricity off to do maintenance at one power station. And why has this never happened before?

[Datura]

Drives me mad too.

It does seem like they have hidden agendas.

[The_Librarian]

Mugabe had to cook some brekkers.

That's why we suffered.

[vespax]

Southern Suburbs in Cape Town were out of juice for about 2 hours today.

Back now, but has disrupted business throughout the area. :(

[Daniedj]

Today is very difficult for me. I've got stores' power off all over the country! From Menlyn to Worcester. :mad:

[HelloThere]

Load Shedding?

[derekc]

look at the roads and u'll see...killarney, rosebank were out abt an hr ago. Traffic was terrible.

it's on the news actually: http://www.fin24.co.za/articles/default/display_article.aspx?Nav=ns&ArticleID=1518-25_2236152

[feo]

702 reporting on it too, countrywide random blackouts.

[Daniedj]

I'm sure it's load shedding. But it's never been as bad as today.

[Alan]

Nothing here so far

*touch wood*

[Scooby_Doo]

haha maybe the power grid is collapsing, we due for one of those i think.

[Daniedj]

Nothing here so far

*touch wood*

Yeah. Durban and Bloemfontein is the only areas sofar where I've not had issues with.

[vespax]

CPT southern suburbs were out for about 2 hours mid-day today.

Brilliant people working the planning dept there in Eskom. Let's build diesel generators when the price of oil is sky-high... Brilliant.

[patrick]

We had an outage at 11 in sunninghill too, fortunately we have backup generators.

[feo]

I heard Durbs is having major power problems.

[ToxicBunny]

That it is..
they're load-shedding like a muthertrucker atm....

[Ivan...]

Nothing here so far

*touch wood*

If I were you I wouldn't be touching wood, I'd be collecting it...

[Ivan...]

..must be all the Christmas lights..
:D

[ToxicBunny]

I swear... eks-dom better be prompt.. or at least Tshwane Metro better be prompt with their load-shedding... Thay say 3:30.. so I expect it to happen anytime now.

[Geriatrix]

..must be all the Christmas lights..
:D
Or they're trying to emulate Christmas lights with all the cities lights! All the Eskom board members are probably watching from their spacebunker right now!

[Daniedj]

Or they're trying to emulate Christmas lights with all the cities lights! All the Eskom board members are probably watching from their spacebunker right now!

Guess they need their safety as well.

[skig]

(no) power to the people!! amandla!

[PostmanPot]

First power outage in ages for me :( :mad:

[Shank]

Yeah. Durban and Bloemfontein is the only areas sofar where I've not had issues with.

Af far as i know stanger has been affected from this load shedding! I dont mind the whole thing just wish they would let us know when they gonna do it thats all.

[Gunny]

Out in the Cape power was down from Retreat to Simonstown, all of Ottery, Sybrand Park\ Athlone and all of Montague Gardens. Thats just what I know off, it was extremely irritating how do you install printers, pc's or graphics cards without power, now I have to go back to 4 clients tomorrow and I was already overbooked.

[HelloThere]

We in Hillcrest area were just affected from 4 to 6.

[hj2k_x]

UCT was down when i was there just now. For hours. Even the ATM's were off.

[HavocXphere]

Rushhour around the Menyln area was great fun today. According to the Tschwane website, my area is also due for a water outage today and tomorrow. Can't wait. lols

[PostmanPot]

Out in the Cape power was down from Retreat to Simonstown, all of Ottery, Sybrand Park Athlone and all of Montague Gardens. Thats just what I know off, it was extremely irritating how do you install printers, pc's or graphics cards without power, now I have to go back to 4 clients tomorrow and I was already overbooked.

+ Wynberg and Diep River.

[bwana]

For once - unscathed :D

[Gunny]

I still want to know how they loadshed business and industrial areas, someone needs to do a analasis on how much it costed business owners in say Montague gardens to be down for most of the day. It probably runs into millions

[Borg]

We should prepare for more fun this week:

"Please note: The schedules will apply for the rest of the week, should there be load shedding"

(Quote from Eskom's Website)

[PeterCH]

Load ****ting currently underway in Centurion.

If this happens during sunny skies, the logical deduction would be that we are in for a few rough winters ahead.

Anyone still wonder why they call it "Dark" Africa?

"We are counting our Christmas bonusas." - Eskom Execs. To answer your question in the subject line.

[PeterCH]

We should prepare for more fun this week:

"Please note: The schedules will apply for the rest of the week, should there be load shedding"

(Quote from Eskom's Website)

"We will inform you via this website 24 hours after each interruption so that you may prepare yourselves." - ESKOM.

[The_Librarian]

what an example of poor planning... :rolleyes:

I think we'll have blackouts galore during the World Cup... and when the Gautrain runs, they'll have to loadshed some areas to provide power for the train.

[Alan]

what an example of poor planning... :rolleyes:

I think we'll have blackouts galore during the World Cup... and when the Gautrain runs, they'll have to loadshed some areas to provide power for the train.

Sad but true :o

[Picard]

Just in from ESCOM top management.


"There will be an increase in the monthly tarriffs, starting next month of 30&#37;, to pay for the planning of a new powerplant, currently in concept phase, to be built, God willing, before the ANC presidential election in 2029 - ESCOM"

[The_Librarian]

Out in the Cape power was down from Retreat to Simonstown, all of Ottery, Sybrand Park Athlone and all of Montague Gardens. Thats just what I know off, it was extremely irritating how do you install printers, pc's or graphics cards without power, now I have to go back to 4 clients tomorrow and I was already overbooked.

The fun of being a techy - been there, done that.

Is it only the rich areas/areas with high power usage they're targeting?

[Picard]

Just in from ESCOM top management.


"There will be an increase in the monthly tarriffs, starting next month of 30&#37;, to pay for the planning of a new powerplant, currently in concept phase, to be built, God willing, before the ANC presidential election in 2029 - ESCOM"

[xrapidx]

So, thanks to the lovely competent Eskom, and government, I have been sitting without power since 9pm...anyone know how long this lasts?

[LandyMan]

Didn't they say they would have it all sorted by 2010? :p

[xrapidx]

Didn't they say they would have it all sorted by 2010? :p

Not funny *sulk* I was watching the new season of Las Vegas... $%$#%$

:p

[LandyMan]

Not funny *sulk* I was watching the new season of Las Vegas... $%$#%$

:p

Oh crap, I totally forgot about that ... DAMN! Sorry for your loss bud :(

[xrapidx]

Oh look...power... right after Las Vegas finished...fsuckers.

[pimal3]

Mugabe had to cook some brekkers.

That's why we suffered.

Regarding this, since we have an electricity shortage, why do we export it then?

Charity begins at home and apparently it is hell to get foreign currency out of Zimbabwe

[bwana]

Mod_Note - several Eskom/Power cut related threads merged.

[PeterCH]

I heard Eskom is begging Mitsubishi to build em some Pebble Nuclear reactors, for free or at discount. Why not ask our new friends the Chinese instead?

[sleeper]

Wow, they really messed up Fourways yesterday. Power went off at 7:30AM yesterday... came back on at 3:30AM, today. That is getting close to 24Hr load shedding.... I hate these incompetent @ssholes!!!!!!

[Ivan...]

Mod_Note - several Eskom/Power cut related threads merged.
nip/cut?

[Tux]

I still have to experience this loadshedding things...

[Ivan...]

I still have to experience this loadshedding things...
Sorry Gru, it doesn't affect the Amish

[Tux]

Sorry Gru, it doesn't affect the Amish

"clop clop clop cloppity clop BANG BANG BANG! THou Shalt Die Ye Fornicator of Maternal Forebears!" Amish driveby...

Actually I think it has something to do with me being almost between HF verwoerd hospital and the PTA zoo. Not to mention all them embassies n shirt not very far from me :D

[UnhappyChappy]

Fantastically our strategec Eskom C*Nt$ managed to 'shed' the life out of every bloody traffic light on the way home, from Randburg through to Buccleuch. Strange how the cut was executed around the time everone was going home.
Thanks to an unexpected accident not long ago due to an outted intersection, I've had the joy of driving a rental clanker around which can do no more than overheat in heavy traffic. So the fact that my usual rush hour journey of 25 minutes turned into 1hr35 left a wonderful smell of burning metal and oil in my nose.

Makes me wonder, after the amount of petrol I had to use and gas in the skottel braai, if there isn't some sort of agreement between these natural energy suppliers to F$&@ing rip us of one way or the other....

I'm pi$$ed off!

[feo]

Well let me extend a big F U to Eskom, I had my gaming morning all planned out and now thats gone to ****. Im really sick of this now. :mad:

[Borg]

Man, I would have loved to be wrong on this one. Centurion is off again. :mad:

According to the Tshwane Website for 2.5 hours today. Already 1/2 hour longer than yesterday. Will these hours continue to stretch into days as time goes on?

Serves us right for bitching and moaning about bandwidth. This is not a priority when you cannot even switch on your computer. At least Telkom will get a well-deserved rest when the bulls-eye is off them for a while! :rolleyes:

I bet they are still exporting electricity as well. Kickbacks have to be paid for after all.

[sleeper]

Fourways have been off since 8AM again. Came back for like 30 mins. And it is still off..I recon I am just going to sell all the electronics I have... dont need them anymore...

[nocilah]

also getting fedup with eskom's inability to do do anything right.

it seems at work we always have power - i am thinking of camping out here for awhile till sunninghill/kyalami eskom fsckers can get their timing right.

Cuz 11am - 7pm is not FSCKING load shedding in a fair way!

fsckers!

[CathJ]

Etzinger asked electricity users who have found the blackouts to be out of synch with the roster posted on its website, to call Eskom's help-line on 08600-Eskom (08600-37566). (http://www.iol.co.za/index.php?set_id=1&click_id=13&art_id=nw20071211130009447C779854)

Of course, to do that you'd have to actually be able to figure out the roster on their website. Although, having just gone to look, it does seem to be easier than it was in the past. I can actually find my suburb on it now!

[Highflyer_GP]

Bloody hell, just went down here again :(

[Rozier]

Well let me extend a big F U to Eskom, I had my gaming morning all planned out and now thats gone to ****. Im really sick of this now. :mad:

:rolleyes:Welcome to the new South Africa. You think it's bad now? Just wait for twenty-ten. It will be the first ever candlelit world cup. :D

[Abu Hamza]

WC2010 won't have any problems. They will just load-shed the country to keep the stadiums lit and declare it a success.

[Picard]

WC2010 won't have any problems. They will just load-shed the country to keep the stadiums lit and declare it a success.

Well said.

[Borg]

According to the Tshwane Website, we will be going dark in the next 30 minutes again.

How come they can cut your power when you are two seconds behind on payment (according to their screwed up accounting system) , but when THEY default on supplying you for a service that you did pay for, nothing can be said?

I understand that they cannot (yet) generate electricity out of thin air, but at least they must credit your account for the times that the supply was interrupted. They worked out the schedules themselves, so this will not be too difficult to implement.

[Stokstert]

The information on Tshwane website is totally unprofessional. You have to download up to 4 pdf files to find your area and then they are not even listed alphabetically on two page long lists.

[ToxicBunny]

Yeah, should be going dark again here at that time as well..

Although, they have yet to meet that schedule for the area that I am in though... We were out for 5 hours yesterday, but not during the "scheduled" time.

[Picard]

The information on Tshwane website is totally unprofessional. You have to download up to 4 pdf files to find your area and then they are not even listed alphabetically on two page long lists.

You know, it's things like this that really ticks me off big time.

[Borg]

You know, it's things like this that really ticks me off big time.

I agree with you big time. This is what happens when all of the appointments into positions there are done politically. Customer-orientated 'service' is one of the first things that falls by the wayside.

The least they could do was to send out a 30-minute advance SMS warning to all residents whose's accounts are up to date that the power supply to their particular area will be interrupted.

"Alternate Service Delivery", my ass! :(

[ToxicBunny]

Right, ok... so they've missed their deadline for Clubview it seems.... AGAIN.

HOW THE HELL AM I SUPPOSED TO PLAN ANYTHING when these monkey's can't even stick to their own damn timetable.

[HavocXphere]

The least they could do was to send out a 30-minute advance SMS warning to all residents whose's accounts are up to date that the power supply to their particular area will be interrupted.
I'd settle for an online schedule that is actually readable.

[ToxicBunny]

I think I'd want an online schedule that is readable and accurate.. it would help a Shedload...

[DWPTA]

So the load shedding has started in Woodmead, again. Third day in a row. :mad:

[HavocXphere]

Three days. Damn. Maybe Eskom is the new enforcer of all things Karma related & punishing you for something?

[DWPTA]

At least the genie refill cans are full for in case.

[Prankst3r]

wth is load shedding?? I've never experienced such a thing (I'm from DBN btw)....*insert mocking sarcastic laugh here*

[LandyMan]

Well, Eskom decided to load ***** on us here in Bryanston as well ... guess the 4pm drinking session will start now then :D

[bwana]

Touch wood but we still havent been shed upon. :)

[DWPTA]

\me walks to Megawatt Park, which will be quicker than to drive too, and flip the switch for the Eastern Cape and KZN :D

[The_Librarian]

Just out of curiosity - is it only rich, well-off areas that are loadshedded, or are poor areas also included?

[HavocXphere]

Just out of curiosity - is it only rich, well-off areas that are loadshedded, or are poor areas also included?
I think the power savings are a lot larger with the well-off areas. Hell, there is so much gear running here atm, it would probably be equal to 5 not-so-well-off houses to achieve the same effect. /me ducks for cover

I want to know whether Zim is still getting power from us while SA is being loadshat. Same for the Alu smelters.

[DWPTA]

Central Region - Stage 1 A

06:00 – 08:30

Eskom central region supply area

Diepkloof Zone 1, Diepkloof Zone 2, Diepkloof Zone 3, Diepkloof Zone 4, Diepkloof Zone 5, Diepkloof Zone 6, Diepkloof Extension, Orlando East, Glen Austin A.H, Glen Austin Extension 1, Kaalfontein extension 23, President Park, Eskom College, Fochville TLC, Dainfern extension 16, Dainfern extension 19, Beverley extension 7, Fourways, Fourways extension 8, Kengies extension 10, Lonehill extension 56, Witkoppen extension 64, Glen Douglas, Henley On Klip, Kliprivier, Randvaal, Carletonville municipality, Fourways Extension 46 & 20, Broadcres A.H, Broadacres ext 1, 2, 10 & 13, Chartwell, Kengies Extension 8, 14 & 21, Neetgedacht, Stratford, Lanseria, Evaton north, Evaton Parktown, Evaton Central, Cjeapside, Evaton West Extension 11, Polokong phase 2 & Evaton Palm Springs, Klerksdorp Municipality, Klerksdorp North, zandspruit & Sunrella, Greengate Extension 2, Randfontein, Brandvlei, Toongat, Vlaakplaas, Protea City, Protea Glen, Protea Extension 1, 2, 4, 5, 11 & 12 ,Protea Park, Kagiso proper, Kagiso Ext 2, Kagiso Ext 4 , Kagiso Ext 6, Kagiso Ext 9, Kagiso Extension 12, Kagiso Ext. 14, Kagiso, Kagiso Extension 1, Kagiso Extension 10, Kagiso Extension 11, Kagiso Extension 3, Kagiso Extension 5, Kagiso Extension 7, Kagiso Extension 8, Kagiso Business, Kagiso Central, Joshua Doore, East Park, Father Gerald, Kagiso LPU, Masibi Langa, Reservoir Ridge, Saambou, Kagiso Council Usage, Ga Mohale, Steenkoppie, Blaauwbank, Kruitfontein, Mount Grace, Zuikerbosftn, Magopela A & B, Edenburg, Morningside Extension 1, Sandown, Woodmead Extension 11, Springfarm and Magaliesburg.

Load Shedding (http://www.eskom.co.za/live/loadshed.php?Item_ID=4002)

[!!DV!!]

Load Shedding (http://www.eskom.co.za/live/loadshed.php?Item_ID=4002)

Thanks, Eskom we where part of you early morning shed run which started late !!! 3 Days running :sick:

[Calico182]

Touch wood but we still havent been shed upon. :)

walmer park / william moffett side went down at about 13:20

nothing on this side of walmer (south end side) yet, but generally we're next on the list...

eish

[Cara]

I've just discovered how much I LOVE my laptop with all this load shedding :D

[Gnome]

In Pretoria we were load shed about once every 6months but I'm in Still Bay, near Mosselbay/George in the Cape and here it looks to be a everyday scenario. Seriously annoying!

[The_Librarian]

I've just discovered how much I LOVE my laptop with all this load shedding :D

my laptop's battery's packed up :(

[bwana]

my laptop's battery's packed up :(I found it was cheaper to get a small generator than a spare battery for my laptop. :o
walmer park / william moffett side went down at about 13:20

nothing on this side of walmer (south end side) yet, but generally we're next on the list...

eishYou dry-landers have nothing going for you :p

[The_Librarian]

I found it was cheaper to get a small generator than a spare battery for my laptop. :o

I'm thinking of getting a compatible genny and UPS and not worry about the laptop battery.

[bwana]

I'm thinking of getting a compatible genny and UPS and not worry about the laptop battery.Ok - so your laptop battery is completely shot and not keeping a charge whatsoever?

[The_Librarian]

Ok - so your laptop battery is completely shot and not keeping a charge whatsoever?

Nope. Not even a tiny bit.

New battery costs R350.

Will have to wait and see if I get any extra money this year.

[jetpacman]

Try getting a little inverter. you plug it into your car or haul the battery from the car inside and voila you got power for a laptop, PC or even a small TV. Works for me. You just have to make a crocodile to cigarette plug adapter of you going to take the battery inside.

[Picard]

I found it was cheaper to get a small generator than a spare battery for my laptop.

I almost spat out my brandy-en-coke all over the screen. LOL!!! So true.

[Picard]

I just spent 1 hour twiddling my thumbs because of load shedding :mad:

During the other hour I fixed my mother's keyboard that had sugary tea spilt over it and then I poured myself a drink to pass the time. :mad:

[The_Librarian]

Try getting a little inverter. you plug it into your car or haul the battery from the car inside and voila you got power for a laptop, PC or even a small TV. Works for me. You just have to make a crocodile to cigarette plug adapter of you going to take the battery inside.

Now that's an excellent idea...

Gotta see if it'll be feasible to get a solar panel, battery and inverter...


Whilst on the topic - how do you work out what size generator to purchase? So that you won't buy a too-weak one, or too large.

As I understand it, you'll have to add the maximum rating of your electrical devices, example a transformer for an adsl router pulls 105mA, whilst a kettle pulls 2000W, and all the other appliances (freezer, fridge, lights, etc) which you want to power, add them all up, and buy a genny with a slightly larger rating?

[bwana]

As I understand it, you'll have to add the maximum rating of your electrical devices, example a transformer for an adsl router pulls 105mA, whilst a kettle pulls 2000W, and all the other appliances (freezer, fridge, lights, etc) which you want to power, add them all up, and buy a genny with a slightly larger rating?Appliances such as fridges spike quite a bit higher than their normal running level when the compressor kicks in iirc so you need to take that into account.

My generator is really small so I dont bother with anything more than the TV, laptops, adsl, wifi, PVR and enough energy saving bulbs to light the house. Our outages are never over 12 hours so the stuff in the fridge is fine and we have gas to cook over.

[Rozier]

WC2010 won't have any problems. They will just load-shed the country to keep the stadiums lit and declare it a success.


You are probably right :mad:

[BeVonk!]

My area here in Centurion has been without power for more than five hours now probably due to load shedding or cable theft. Its now a reality of life in SA that we have to live with.

Let's hear a few tips and tricks on how to survive extended power failures. What can and should we do, and what not?

I heard a talk on radio the other day about dry ice and how one can use that to keep stuff frozen for many days without power.

[thedoc!]

Are your gates / security systems not at risk with the outages?

[bwana]

Have a mental picture of what is in your fridge and where.

Buy a gas stove or hotplate.

[feo]

Get a battery powered lamp or something.

Get a generator.

Get some matches and candles.

Get a PSP to pass the time while you're waiting for power.

[BeVonk!]

Are your gates / security systems not at risk with the outages?

Yes for sure. Electric gate stands open. Electric fence is down.

Tip: Charge cellphone and laptop at work before going home and at home before going to work. Grab the power when you can still get it.

[feo]

Another idea, get a car charger for your cellphone.

[BeVonk!]

Feo, that PSP will run out quickly with little else to do :D

[BeVonk!]

Another idea, get a car charger for your cellphone.

Good one.

[BeVonk!]

Be prepared for a braai any day any time :D

[BeVonk!]

Not sure how affordable solar is these days but economy of scale may make it more affordable.

[ajax]

Be prepared for a braai any day any time :D

I have an indoor braai at my place :p

[Picard]

Have some alcohol closeby to numb the frustration.

[BeVonk!]

I have an indoor braai at my place :p

Yes, when I lived in the northern subs of Cape Town it was common to see indoor braai chimneys. Here in 'Teng it hasn't caught on yet.

[BeVonk!]

Have some alcohol closeby to numb the frustration.

A bottle of Beyerskloof Pinotage is perfect for load shedding yes.

[bwana]

Be prepared for a braai any day any time :DThis is SA - if you're not prepared to braai at the drop of a hat please exit the country immediately . . . :D

[BeVonk!]

This is SA - if you're not prepared to braai at the drop of a hat please exit the country immediately . . . :D

True! :D

[vodacom3g]

My area here in Centurion has been without power for more than five hours now probably due to load shedding or cable theft. Its now a reality of life in SA that we have to live with.

Let's hear a few tips and tricks on how to survive extended power failures. What can and should we do, and what not?

I heard a talk on radio the other day about dry ice and how one can use that to keep stuff frozen for many days without power.

Reality is you need a certain number of Kilowatts to run some essential stuff at home (lights, fridges, security systems, gates, doors, internet connection!) and the guys selling the generators / UPS's are making a killing. Often the quality of the kit being offered implies the buyer should be doing the killing.....

Some of the cheapie petrol systems you can buy at retail stores create so many harmonics and are not close to 50Hz that they do more damage than good. As always, caveat emptor.

Currently a decent 30KW+ diesel genset will set you back anything between R40K and R80K.....:(

A very good business to get into over the next few years....;)

Maybe we can invoice the utility provider?

[BeVonk!]

Cycling is good for load shedding ... especially if the bike is stationary and connected to a dynamo :D

[BeVonk!]

Reality is you need a certain number of Kilowatts to run some essential stuff at home (lights, fridges, security systems, gates, doors, internet connection!) and the guys selling the generators / UPS's are making a killing. Often the quality of the kit being offered implies the buyer should be doing the killing.....

Some of the cheapie petrol systems you can buy at retail stores create so many harmonics and are not close to 50Hz that they do more damage than good. As always, caveat emptor.

Currently a decent 30KW+ diesel genset will set you back anything between R40K and R80K.....:(

A very good business to get into over the next few years....;)

Maybe we can invoice the utility provider?

I wanted to ask this exact question now ... can those with the knowledge please advise us dummies on what generators to buy. What should we look at? Which brands are good, and which are bad?

[BeVonk!]

A good generator costs big bucks, thats for sure. We've recently accepted delivery of a R300k generator at work ... imported from Germany ... three months after submitting the order.

[BeVonk!]

vodacom3g, living in Plattekloof I'm sure you have an indoor braai too? Here in 'Teng its an SUV that makes the man, down in the Cape it's an indoor braai :D

[Alan]

Have a working torch in every bathroom

[BeVonk!]

If it's looks like I'm talking to myself here (and way too much) ... I'm testing my new Dell's HSDPA connection ... :D

[gboy]

we have a 3KW akira generator, I just run our PC via the UPS systems, seems to get most off the bad harmonics out, and UPS are reasonably cheap. It also powers the the DSTV, TV (LG Flatron), and a few 40w light bulbs, and the DVD home theater system, i have enjoyed a decent movie in 5-1 glory, wile the rest of the town is using candles,

runs for about 6 hours on a tank of fuel, i made a decent wheel system so i can push it around.

just have a decent amount of extension cables around.

[vodacom3g]

I wanted to ask this exact question now ... can those with the knowledge please advise us dummies on what generators to buy. What should we look at? Which brands are good, and which are bad?

There's so much cr@p available as every man and his dog is now importing generators.

I wrote a relevant article (http://www.omnisol.co.za/news/june07.html#2) a while ago on how to pick any kind of technology and it applies equally well here, although written around smart home technology.

But the single biggest parameter is to ask for references from any supplier. Ask to speak to a FEW different end-users who has the same system installed. Don't listen to sales people.

On a more technical note, the system must be able to stabilise the frequency and voltage (neither easy as load varies) and must produce no harmonics. If the guy does not know what harmonics is (ask him), walk away.

[bwana]

we have a 3KW akira generator, I just run our PC via the UPS systems, seems to get most off the bad harmonics out, and UPS are reasonably cheap. It also powers the the DSTV, TV (LG Flatron), and a few 40w light bulbs, and the DVD home theater system, i have enjoyed a decent movie in 5-1 glory, wile the rest of the town is using candles,

runs for about 6 hours on a tank of fuel, i made a decent wheel system so i can push it around.

just have a decent amount of extension cables around.I went this route http://mybroadband.co.za/vb/showthread.php?p=1291245#post1291245

[vodacom3g]

vodacom3g, living in Plattekloof I'm sure you have an indoor braai too? Here in 'Teng its an SUV that makes the man, down in the Cape it's an indoor braai :D

With the wind down here an indoor braai is pretty much a necessity. :)

[Alan]

So am I the only one prepared for it going dark while I'm on the cr@pper or in the shower :eek:

[BeVonk!]

So am I the only one prepared for it going dark while I'm on the cr@pper or in the shower :eek:

There are people that have so much sunlight shining from their behinds that a torch is not required on the cr@pper :D

[BeVonk!]

With the wind down here an indoor braai is pretty much a necessity. :)

I'm sure in your case it's a fully automated indoor braai requiring very little user intervention? :) I must say the omnisol site looks great and makes for interesting reading.

[vodacom3g]

I'm sure in your case it's a fully automated indoor braai requiring very little user intervention? :) I must say the omnisol site looks great and makes for interesting reading.

Yup, very much so. The control system goes by the name of 'Vera'....;)

Thanks on the site. Any suggestions, typos, etc. please forward.

[BeVonk!]

Yup, very much so. The control system goes by the name of 'Vera'....;)

Thanks on the site. Any suggestions, typos, etc. please forward.

Let's hope Vera is not who I think it/she is ... or else there is going to be a lot of load shedding in Plattekloof :D

[vodacom3g]

Let's hope Vera is not who I think it/she is ... or else there is going to be a lot of load shedding in Plattekloof :D

LOL L? No....

[3x-a-d3-u5]

For small devices like my computer i use a UPS. Gennys are nice nut really expensive.

I bought mine from here: http://www.powerbackups.co.za its only a 1Kva but it does the job. :)

And yes I've tried cycling... its really quite a novelty until there really is not power and you're cycling to watch the telli...

[Voicy]

Yes for sure. Electric gate stands open. Electric fence is down.

Tip: Charge cellphone and laptop at work before going home and at home before going to work. Grab the power when you can still get it.

Odd... considering that Centurion gate motors are from , well, centurion. They permanently run on batteries and only get trinkle charged. So when power's out for 2 days, they should still work fine :/ Maybe have that checked out.

For those of you who are thinking of getting gennies, there is a thread floating around somewhere in which i mentioned the 914723 easy steps to rigging up the genny safely. :D

[titanium]

... the kind that you shake to generate more light...

DON'T buy them! I bought one and was impressed at how bright it was. Then I got suspicious and disassembled it - sure enough, there are a couple of CR2025 lithium batteries in there. Take them out, and the light dims instantly, only momentarily brightening with every shake, but nowhere near the level of luminance that was provided by the lithium batteries. In other words, when the batteries eventually die, you'll get more light from candles than this piece of rubbish.

I saw some wind-up torches somewhere, anybody tested them?

[CathJ]

... the kind that you shake to generate more light...

DON'T buy them! I bought one and was impressed at how bright it was. Then I got suspicious and disassembled it - sure enough, there are a couple of CR2025 lithium batteries in there. Take them out, and the light dims instantly, only momentarily brightening with every shake, but nowhere near the level of luminance that was provided by the lithium batteries. In other words, when the batteries eventually die, you'll get more light from candles than this piece of rubbish.

I saw some wind-up torches somewhere, anybody tested them?

I have a wind up torch, and it seems to work well. Haven't disassembled it though.

[The_Librarian]

@ titanium - I prefer to call these w@nking torches, for obvious reasons.

got one, you have to w@nk really long before getting anything useful out of it... :o :D :D

I shall make a wee detour to the shops and trawl it, looking for stuff which uses little electrical power, tally it all up, and see what I can purchase.

We already got a gas braai and a braaiplace, so no worries there.

Only need a good genny, don't want a cheap POS to burn the fridge/freezer out :eek:

[CathJ]

How much does a smallish UPS cost? (I did a quick google, found lots of sites selling them but no prices).

[Tux]

I dont want to rub your noses in it, but I still have to experience this lovely loadshedding thing :D

[titanium]

How much does a smallish UPS cost? (I did a quick google, found lots of sites selling them but no prices).

Last year I bought a Honda 2.5kVa generator for R5k. You can now get them for R2.5k, or a 6kVa Honda generator for R5k. They have AVR and are pretty reliable, compared to some of the Chinese knockoffs that Makro and Builder's Warehouse are flogging these days.

[sevenworth]

Cutter's (Husqvarna) in Maitland (CT) sells Benza generators (http://www.cutters.co.za/index2.htm). Don't know what kind of quality though.

I have a couple of those twin CFL emergency lights up around the house. One in particular lights up the dart board cabinet. My dart game has improved drastically in the last while...

[bekdik]

Cycling is good for load shedding ... especially if the bike is stationary and connected to a dynamo :D

Yup, after a couple of hours of cycling you will need to load shed.

[Ryder_JHB]

So who else is getting gatvol of the sorry state of our electricity?

I have had three power failures in three days at home, and I am starting to get a little bit peeved now...

Who would be up for an activist site, similiar to MyAdsl, but called MyEskom?

Who is gonna be no-rpm, and who will be Antowatt? ;)

[milomak]

where do you stay that they are load shedding already?

[marine1]

Rofl

[Ricard]

Electricity? whats that?

[Ryder_JHB]

where do you stay that they are load shedding already?

I'm in Weltevredenpark, Roodepoort....

Seriously, three power failures in as many days... its extremely frustrating...

[Moederloos]

Gah - Try as I might to not get worked up (and staying away from MyADSL helps with that)....

FFS EKSDOM WAKE THE HELL UP

The sooner I get the hell out of this messed up country, the better.