Eskom has extended load shedding, however it has been downgraded to load shedding Stage 2 until further notice. This follows a significant recovery of power generation units over the weekend.
What You Need to Know
The power utility confirmed that eight out of ten generation units that had tripped over the weekend have been successfully restored, bringing back 3,808MW of capacity. Additionally, another 1,146MW is expected to be recovered overnight, aiding efforts to stabilize the grid.
Despite these improvements, unplanned outages remain high at 13,690MW, which is 690MW above Eskom’s summer outlook base case of 13,000MW. Planned maintenance currently stands at 7,245MW, in line with Eskom’s summer maintenance strategy.
Eskom spokesperson Daphne Mokwena highlighted that while emergency reserves are being replenished, more work is required to reach sufficient levels.
Why Load Shedding Stage 2 is Still Necessary
Eskom’s CEO Dan Marokane reassured the public that the recent recovery efforts have positioned the utility on a path towards stabilizing supply.
“We’ve made tremendous progress since Saturday night. By yesterday, we had brought back eight of the ten units. We are now rebuilding stock on fuel for the open-cycle gas turbines, and we have additional units coming back online today,” Marokane said.
He further stated that if recovery efforts continue at this pace, load shedding could potentially be suspended by the end of the week. However, Eskom is monitoring the situation closely and will provide updates as necessary.
High Maintenance Levels to Ensure Future Grid Stability
Electricity Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa emphasized that the high level of maintenance being carried out is crucial to preparing for winter demand and ensuring grid reliability. While these maintenance efforts contribute to short-term load shedding, they are essential to long-term energy security.
“As long as maintenance remains at these levels, the risk of load shedding following any setbacks will persist. However, we will not compromise on this maintenance, as it is required to ensure future grid stability,” Ramokgopa stated.
When Will Load Shedding End?
While Eskom has not provided an official end date for load shedding Stage 2, the utility has promised to keep the public informed. The next official update is expected on Tuesday, 25 February 2025, unless significant developments occur earlier.
For now, South Africans are advised to stay updated on load shedding schedules and continue implementing energy-saving measures where possible.
Although load shedding Stage 2 is an improvement from the more severe Stage 4 and Stage 6 rolling blackouts, Eskom remains cautious about declaring an end to the crisis. The utility is focused on restoring generation capacity, replenishing reserves, and maintaining grid stability to minimize future disruptions.
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