Weekend load shedding on the cards after two generators turned off

POWER utility Eskom has warned of load shedding that may persist over the weekend because two generators are not in service.

This comes after a generation unit at the Tutuka power station tripped, while another one was taken off the grid.

“The return to service of a generation unit at Duvha and Kendal power stations has been delayed. All of these have added significant pressure to the generation system.

“Any additional breakdowns will compromise Eskom’s ability to supply the country through the peak demand period of 5pm to 9pm. This constrained supply situation may persist through the weekend.

“We urge the public’s co-operation in managing demand in order to help us avoid load shedding and supply the country’s demand through the peak periods,” Eskom said.

The City has meanwhile also warned that inclement weather could lead to power outages if electricity infrastructure was damaged.

It said in the aftermath of storms, prolonged electricity outages in various areas across the metro were common.

“If there are large volumes of service requests, there might be some delays in attending to outages, depending on their nature. City teams will do their best, as always, to assist customers in the shortest space of time.

“To reduce the risk of outages, the City encourages property owners and tenants to clear tree branches away from overhead power lines to reduce the risk to them during stormy weather. Prolonged electricity outages across the metro are often caused by trees and branches falling on them. Customers are urged to remain patient as our teams attend to these outages,” the City said.