Eskom reduces load-shedding for the weekend

Eskom has announced that it will reduce load-shedding to Stage 2 at 05:00 on Saturday, 3 February 2024.

The power utility attributed the drop to anticipated lower demand over the weekend and said Stage 2 will remain in effect until further notice.

“Due to the anticipated lower weekend electricity demand and the need to replenish emergency reserves in preparation for the week ahead, load-shedding will be reduced to Stage 2 from 05:00 on Saturday until further notice,” said Eskom.

The power utility said it will monitor the power system and communicate any significant changes should they occur.

The change comes after Eskom was forced to implement all-day Stage 3 load-shedding on Thursday, 1 February.

Before that, South African residents experienced a rotation of Stage 2 load-shedding during the day and Stage 3 overnight.

Eskom said it was forced to increase load-shedding after five generating units were taken offline for maintenance.

“Over the past 24 hours, five generation units were taken offline for repairs,” Eskom said in a statement on Monday.

“Additionally, the return to service of two generating units that were on planned maintenance was delayed due to an opportunity to perform preventative maintenance.”