Eskom to downgrade to Stage 5 load shedding

Eskom announced that it will downgrade to Stage 5 load shedding by midnight on Monday, after a unit each at Camden, Kriel, Kusile and Kendal power station returned overnight.

‘’A unit had to be taken off at the Duvha power station after the development of a boiler tube leak.  This means we will be able to reduce load shedding to stage 5 at midnight. Further updates will be announced as soon as possible," said spokesperson, Sikonathi Mantshantsha.

The power utility implemented stage 6 rolling power cuts at 4am on Sunday.

Eskom blamed Stage 6 load shedding on a trip that occurred at Kusile and Kriel power stations.

Meanwhile, Western Cape Premier Alan Winde said the province has a contingency plan in place, should load shedding continue at higher stages

The premier called an urgent Provincial Cabinet on Sunday, after Eskom implemented stage 6 rolling power cuts on Saturday. The purpose of the gathering, says Winde, was to update the province’s contingency plan in the event of severe load shedding.

“The Western Cape Government (WCG) is prepared on all fronts should load shedding at this level continue. Although it is unlikely at this stage, our plans are continuously being updated and are intact should the situation worsen,” said the Premier.

Winde says provincial government are ready for any eventuality to ensure service delivery continues, especially across platforms such as medical facilities.

‘’It is critical that we are ready for any eventuality to ensure service delivery continues, especially across critical platforms. With the support of our incredibly strong Disaster Management Team, the WCG has a thorough contingency plan in place. We have planned for various scenarios, and we are constantly upping our game.”

The Premier urged residents to use electricity sparingly

“Apart from having a good plan in place, all of us in the Western Cape need to intensify energy reduction measures, now, to contribute to reduced pressure on the grid. As we navigate our way through this latest series of power cuts, the Premier has appealed to Western Cape residents to use electricity sparingly.’’

 

PICTURE: Pixabay

Done By: Mitchum George