Eskom has announced the implementation of load reduction measures in several regions due to network overloading, coinciding with the onset of a series of cold fronts sweeping across South Africa.
The power utility clarified that load reduction differs from load shedding, emphasizing that there remains sufficient generating capacity to meet the country’s electricity demands.
Despite the suspension of load shedding for over three months, Eskom is now grappling with network overloading issues, which have been exacerbated by the recent cold weather.
“While Eskom has suspended load shedding for 103 consecutive days due to sufficient generation capacity to supply electricity to the country, the issue of network overloading has resurfaced with the onset of winter,”
Eskom stated.
With temperatures plunging to minus five degrees in Gauteng and adverse weather conditions expected in the Western Cape, including heavy rains and strong winds, the demand for electricity has significantly increased.
Eskom’s Group Executive for Distribution, Monde Bala, highlighted the risks posed by overloaded transformers, primarily due to electricity theft and excessive usage.
“Overloaded transformers as a result of electricity theft present a serious risk to human life, we only implement load reduction as a very last resort for the shortest periods possible after all other options have been exhausted,”
said Bala.
Bala further explained the potential long-term impact of overloading on infrastructure, noting that a damaged transformer could leave an area without power for up to six months.
“A transformer damaged by overloading can leave an area without power for up to six months, protecting Eskom’s assets is in the best interest of all South Africans,”
he added.
The affected regions include parts of Limpopo, Western Cape, Eastern Cape, Gauteng, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal, and North West, where 94% of the overloaded transformers are located. Overloading typically occurs during peak hours from 7 am to 9 am and 5 pm to 7 pm.
In response to these challenges, Eskom has called on residents to reduce their electricity consumption, ensure legal connections, and report any illegal activities. Customers are advised to switch off nonessential appliances, such as heaters and geysers, and to use alternative heating methods to help prevent load reduction and sudden power outages.
Efforts are underway to restore full power as swiftly as possible once the risk of overloading diminishes. Communication with affected customers will be conducted through regular channels, including SMS and Customer Connect newsletters.
“In areas where load reduction will be implemented, the relevant cluster or province will communicate with affected customers through the normal channels including SMS and Customer Connect newsletters,”
Eskom mentioned.
As winter intensifies, Eskom continues to focus on protecting its assets and maintaining a stable electricity supply while urging the public to cooperate and conserve energy.
