Eskom, the South African power utility, has announced that Stage 6 loadshedding is back and will remain in effect until further notice due to the loss of two additional generation units.
From Stage 4 and 5 to Stage 6
On Monday, 04 September, Eskom pushed the country from Stage 4 and 5 to Stage 6 loadshedding overnight. The Lethabo and Matla power stations were cited as needing to be shut down for repairs.
Rolling Blackouts Continue
The rolling blackouts that have plagued the country for much of the year will now continue as a constant battle. Eskom has not indicated a timeframe for the completion of the repairs.
Teams Working Tirelessly
In a statement, the state-owned entity said that teams were working tirelessly to return generating units to service. “Breakdowns are currently at 16 210MW of generating capacity, while the capacity out of service for planned maintenance is 5 894MW,” the statement read.
Generating Units Offline and Online
Since yesterday, a generating unit each at Kriel and Medupi power stations was taken offline for repairs. In the same period, a generating unit at Arnot, Kendal, Kriel, and Lethabo power stations were returned to service.
Delays in Returning Units to Service
The delay in returning a generating unit each at Hendrina and Tutuka power stations to service is also contributing to the current capacity constraints. Eskom teams are working tirelessly to return these generating units to service.
Stage 6 loadshedding will be implemented from 05:00 on Tuesday until further notice pic.twitter.com/S9rxax7fXD
— Eskom Hld SOC Ltd (@Eskom_SA) September 4, 2023