“The load shedding is necessary due to loss of generation capacity overnight. It is also required to manage the use of the emergency reserves, which will help us contain the stage of load-shedding required," the power utility said in a statement.
Two generation units at the Kusile power station tripped as a result of the main coal feed conveyor belts supplying coal to the units failing. In addition, a unit each at the Kriel and Duvha power stations tripped due to unforeseen breakdowns. Four generation units' return to service from planned maintenance has also been delayed.
“The system remains vulnerable and unpredictable, should any further breakdowns occur, the stage of load shedding may change at short notice," Eskom said.
Eskom currently has 5,358MW on planned maintenance, while another 14,748MW of capacity is unavailable due to unplanned maintenance, breakdowns and the outage delays.
