National Loadshedding Status Update: 29 Jan 2023

Until further notice, Eskom will maintain Stage 2 load-shedding, despite the return to service of five generating units over the past 36 hours.

This decision is driven by the necessity to replenish and stabilize emergency reserves for the upcoming weekday electricity demand. Additionally, there is a marginally deteriorated available generation capacity. Eskom will closely monitor the system, providing further updates on Wednesday afternoon or communicating any changes if required.

Currently, unplanned outages account for 14,759MW of generating capacity, while planned maintenance has 7,639MW out of service. Eskom Power Station General Managers and their teams are working diligently to ensure that the 2,320MW of generating capacity is restored by Wednesday, as planned.

The forecast for tonight’s evening peak demand is 25,005MW. Eskom appreciates those conserving electricity by heeding the call to use it sparingly and efficiently.

Actions such as switching off geysers and pool pumps from 17:00 to 21:00 contribute to lowering demand, easing the pressure on the power system, and ultimately aiding in reducing load-shedding stages.

We would like to thank those who do heed the call to use electricity sparingly and efficiently, including switching off geysers and pool pumps from 17:00 to 21:00, as this lowers demand and helps in alleviating the pressure on the power system and contributes to lower stages of load-shedding

Eskom wants to remind the public that load-shedding is implemented only as a last resort to protect the national grid. We, therefore, urge all South Africans to continue using electricity sparingly, especially during these uncertain times on the power system.

Important information:

Every stage includes the stages before them, i.e. stage 4 includes stages 1, 2,3, and 4.

Stage 1 requires 1000MW,
Stage 2 requires 2000MW,
Stage 3 requires 3000MW,
Stage 4 calls for 4000MW,
Stage 5 calls for 5000MW,
Stage 6 calls for 6000MW,
Stage 7 calls for 7000MW,
Stage 8 calls for 8000MW to load shed nationally at a given period rotationally. Load Shedding is conducted rotationally as a measure of last resort to protect the power system.

Eskom continues to appeal to residents and businesses to use electricity sparingly during this period. Please switch off geysers as well as all non-essential lighting and electrical appliances to assist in reducing demand.