Load shedding to alternate between Stages 3 and 4

Eskom has reduced load shedding to Stages 3 and 4 until further notice. This after the state power utility implemented Stage 5 and 6 load shedding over the past weekend. 'Eskom has returned to service five generating units which will allow the emergency reserves to be adequately replenished by Tuesday morning. This will enable the reduction of load shedding to Stage 3 from 5am on Tuesday until 4pm. Stage 4 load shedding will then be implemented from 4pm on Tuesday until 5am on Wednesday. 'This alternating pattern of Stage 3 load shedding from 5am to 4pm and Stage 4 load shedding from 4pm to 5am will be repeated daily until further notice. Eskom will closely monitor the power system and communicate any changes to load shedding should it be required,' the power utility said. By Monday afternoon, breakdowns had rendered some 14 579MW of generating capacity offline with a further 7316MW unavailable due to planned maintenance. 'Eskom power station general managers and their teams continue to work diligently t o ensure that additional generating units are brought back to service. A total of 2 150MW of generating capacity is planned to be returned to service by Wednesday. 'We would like to appeal to members of the public to use electricity sparingly and efficiently, including switching off geysers and pool pumps from 5pm to 9pm. This lowers demand and helps in alleviating the pressure on the power system, contributing to lower stages of load shedding.' Meanwhile, the power utility says it has made 'significant strides' in restoring electricity supply to most parts of the Eastern Cape village of Tsomo and its surrounding areas. The area was hit with storms and extreme weather last week which affected electricity supply. 'Only [a] few affected customers remain without power in the Intsika Yethu Local Municipality and are expected to be restored this week. 'We thank the affected customers for their patience. Eskom technicians and contractors are doing all they can to normalise the situation. Customers without elec tricity are urged to treat all electricity appliances as live during this period,' Eskom said. Source: South African Government News Agency