Eskom will implement Stage 2 load shedding during the evening peak hours from 4pm to 10pm, from Tuesday until 10pm on Thursday.
The state-owned entity said the blackouts were necessary to manage limited generation capacity and ensure continued supply during the working days.
Delayed return of generation units
Eskom spokesperson Daphne Mokwena said the decision to implement load shedding follows the delayed return of generation units amounting to 3 120MW, as well as an additional loss of 1 385MW in the past 24 hours due to unplanned breakdowns.
“The primary reason for this setback is the delay in returning of several units from planned
maintenance. These delays, coupled with an unplanned capacity loss that has now temporarily exceeded 13 000 MW, align with the risk scenarios shared in our Winter 2025 Outlook.
“Eskom is currently emerging from an intensive maintenance cycle. The maintenance is essential for long-term reliability, but temporarily reduces system flexibility and resilience. As a result, the grid is more sensitive to unexpected disruptions. We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience this causes,” said Mokwena.
Structural improvements across the generation fleet
“Eskom remains firmly committed to supplying electricity reliably. Our teams continue to work with determination and professionalism to stabilise and strengthen the system. This is as a result of the structural improvements across the generation fleet.
“Load shedding incidents have significantly decreased compared to previous years. The recent setbacks impacted our operational performance and have been acknowledged in our Winter Outlook. This along with a clear recovery plan,” said Mokwena.
Eskom CEO Dan Marokane said: “Our new Operational Excellence Programme is key to restoring performance. We are reinforcing oversight and strengthening accountability. And we are aligning service providers with stricter performance standards. This forms part of our broader drive for consistent improvement through Systems, People, and Processes.
“We are determined to build on the progress already achieved. The delays in returning units are being addressed with urgency by senior leadership,” said Marokane.
Electricity minister to update media
Meanwhile, Electricity Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa will host a media briefing on Wednesday. He will provide an update on the status of South Africa’s electricity generation performance.
Ramokgopa’s media briefing follows Eskom’s implementation of Stage 2 evening peak load shedding. It will run from Tuesday at 4pm until 10pm on Thursday.
