Planning, preparing the only way to survive loadshedding

Readers share how they are coping with power disruptions

TotT’s latest facebook question was: “How are you preparing to cope with ongoing loadshedding?”

Loadshedding was suspended last week.

Debbie Horsesmakelifebetter Geyer said: “I can only shake my head because everyone is going to do exactly what needs to be done, only during different times. So is it really load shedding ???????? ”

Sarah Cohen shared how she planned to cope, saying “planning on preparing to cope with it by investing in more smart lighting technology for the house, preparing meals/work around loadshedding times and trying to spend time during loadshedding with loved ones, going back to basics with card and board games.

Cassandra Snyman also shared her plans, saying she “invested in lithium battery for alarm and cctv as criminals love load shedding, gas stove for cooking and LED bulbs connected to a battery for lights”.

Valerie Wild said: “It would be easier to plan things if Eskom would just stick to their schedule instead of changing it at the drop of a hat”.

Mzukisi Ka-Gwata asked “why is it difficult for households to go the solar route? We have had loadshedding since 2008, yet the uptake of solar as a source of energy at household level hasn ’ t really happened”.

Colin Taylor said he planned by “making sure everything is charged before it starts and switching off the plugs of tvs in case of power surge. He added, “candles at the ready”.

Jordan Mntungwa said they prepared by “cooking early, bathing earlier and finishing admin and work things before 4pm”.

Silvanus Welcome said “we invested in a good gas stove. A very nice Samsung fridge that keeps food cold and iced for up to 24 hours without electricity. We stock less perishable goods, especially meat. We do more outdoor activities. Braais and potjies. This way we don’t get frustrated.”

He said “the blessing in this nightmare of loadshedding is that our electricity bill has significantly decreased”.