More load shedding as Eskom plans maintenance

Eskom started load shedding this week following a five week hiatus as the utility performs maintenance at the Cahora Bassa hydroelectric scheme.

According to a report by online business publication, Fin24, the maintenance is expected to be completed by September 20 and the hydroelectric scheme is expected to be back on full power the following day.

As a result of this planned outage, Eskom warned in a statement that the power system would be tight, forcing the use of its emergency reserves to augment the capacity shortfall.

Eskom also warned of higher electricity consumption during the day as the weather began to warm up, calling on all electricity users to continue using electricity watchfully, with a particular focus on decreasing usage of air-conditioners, geysers and pool pumps to reduce the risk of load shedding.