Eskom, South Africa’s primary electricity provider, has issued warnings of possible Stage 2 load shedding during the forthcoming winter months of 2024. Despite a recent hiatus in load shedding, the power utility stresses the importance of maintaining vigilance and preparedness.
Temporary Pause in Load Shedding Explained
The recent brief pause from load shedding was a result of improved plant performance and strategic management of electricity reserves. This period provided Eskom with a crucial window to conduct maintenance without disrupting the power supply. However, this is a temporary measure, as the underlying challenges of aging infrastructure and high demand remain prevalent.
Related: Eskom Prepares for Stage 16 Load-Shedding: What You Need to Know.
Stage 2 Load Shedding – Navigating Winter Load Shedding
As we approach the winter season, Eskom’s CEO, Dan Marokane, has indicated that the colder weather and an anticipated Unplanned Capacity Loss Factor (UCLF) of 14,000MW will likely necessitate the implementation of Stage 2 load shedding. This involves planned power outages of up to two hours per rotation to ensure grid stability.
“Although recent months have seen fewer and less severe load shedding, the winter demands additional precautions to manage the grid effectively,” Marokane commented. He added that minimising disruptions remains a key goal, with ongoing efforts to bolster the grid’s long-term reliability through maintenance and the integration of new generation capacities.
Essential Guidelines for the Public During Load Shedding:
- Anticipate Rotational Cuts: Load shedding is expected to be rotational and scheduled, lasting no more than two hours at a time.
- Identify Peak Hours: Typically occurring in the mornings and evenings, it’s crucial to conserve energy during these periods to help avoid escalating to higher load-shedding stages.
- Stay Informed: Keep up to date with the latest load-shedding schedules by visiting Eskom’s dedicated portal at https://loadshedding.eskom.co.za/ or check your local municipal website.
“For winter 2024, the likely scenario from our assumptions is that load shedding will be maintained within Stage 2 at most. In the extreme case where the unreliability increases, that component may occasionally go to Stage 5, but we really think that on the basis of what we see, the performance of the fleet and load shedding will stay within Stage 2,” said Marokane.
Surviving the Cold with Less Power
The challenge of staying warm during the colder months amidst power cuts is significant. Here are several strategies to help manage the situation:
- Insulate Your Home: Consider insulating windows and doors to retain heat.
- Invest in Alternative Heating: Use gas heaters or layer clothing and use blankets instead of electric heaters.
- Prepare Meals in Advance: Utilise non-electric appliances to prepare meals during outages.
- Use LED Candles and Solar Lights: These can provide lighting without using the main power supply.
Related: Eskom Announces Electricity Tariff Hike 2024/25.
Eskom continues to urge all citizens and businesses to reduce their electricity use during peak times. “Every bit of energy saved helps alleviate pressure on the system and reduces the likelihood of more severe outages,” Marokane emphasises. By collectively adhering to these guidelines, we can navigate the winter more effectively and safely.