Update
NATIONAL NEWS - After warning that it would be implementing Stage 2 load shedding all weekend, power utility Eskom has now had to shed another 2,000MW on Saturday morning, taking the total to 4,000MW.
It has blamed the problem on supply from Mozambique.
Please check your local schedule or download EskomSePush to see how you will be affected.
The power cuts began at 08:00 and will only end at 23:00 tonight, with generating capacity severely constrained as Eskom attempts to restore its services.
Read a statement released by Eskom here
Eskom announced on Friday that it would implement load shedding until Sunday, and the risk for load shedding would remain high until next week.
“Eskom will continue to implement stage 2 load shedding until Sunday 17 March, as a result of a shortage of generation capacity due to plant breakdowns and the need to manage our diesel and water resources. The management of the diesel and water resources is essential to ensure that the impact of the potential stage of load shedding in the week ahead can be reduced.
“The system outlook for next week further indicates a high risk and that up to stage 2 load shedding may be implemented until the middle of next week.”
“Eskom regrets the inconvenience that this will cause. Regular updates on the status of the power system will be provided through all the media platforms and will include the relevant times that load shedding will be implemented on the day.
“Load shedding is conducted rotationally as a measure of last resort to protect the power system from a total collapse or blackout.”
It appealed to residents and businesses to use electricity sparingly by switching off geysers and non-essential lighting and electrical appliances to assist in reducing the demand.
