/ 26 January 2015

Eskom: Technical problems force stage one load-shedding

Eskom: Technical Problems Force Stage One Load Shedding

Eskom will go into stage one load-shedding on Monday from 11am to 10pm, according to a statement.

The power utility said the power system is severely constrained due to unforeseen technical problems at power stations.   

Eskom called on consumers to urgently switch off geysers, air conditioners, pool pumps and all non-essential appliances throughout the day to reduce electricity demand. 

“As workers leave office buildings this evening we ask that they please switch off the lights, with the exception of security lighting and avoid leaving on air-conditioning overnight,” it said in the statement.   

“Commercial customers, particularly shopping centres and office blocks, can make the biggest difference by switching off non-essential lights and not to leave office equipment such as photocopiers and computers in standby mode after hours.”   

In the event that load-shedding becomes necessary, Eskom said it will use the published load-shedding schedules, which are available on its website. – Staff reporter