State-owned power utility Eskom warns that it may “be forced” to implement load-shedding at short notice as a result of increased consumption amid the severely cold weather currently sweeping across parts of South Africa, coupled with the loss of some generation capacity.
Generation breakdowns total 12 984 MW, while planned maintenance adds 2 924 MW to the deficit.
The utility says load-shedding will likely be implemented should there be any further generation losses.
Eskom, in a statement, says the national grid is currently severely constrained, with an anticipated peak in demand expected towards the evening hours.
As a result, Eskom appeals to the public to reduce the use of electricity to help ease the pressure on the power system, especially between 16:00 and 21:00.