What Is Load Shedding in South Africa?
What is load shedding in South Africa?
Load shedding is a planned supply interruptions that is carried out by South Africa’s power utility Eskom when the demand for electric power exceeds its available supply. It is a well-ordered way of rotating the supply of available electricity between all Eskom customers.
What is the purpose of load shedding?
The purpose of load shedding is aimed at removing load from the power system when there is an imbalance between the demand for electricity and the available electric power.
When did load shedding start in South Africa?
It began in the later months of 2007 as robust economic growth in South Africa led to steady growth in the demand for electricity.
What are the main causes of load shedding in South Africa?
1) The existing old fleet of coal-fired power plants were not replaced.
2) Lack of regular maintenance of existing old coal-fired power plants.
3) Corruption and mismanagement of Eskom power station.
4) Failure to build new power stations to meet growing demand.
What are the negative impacts of load shedding in the economy?
1) Loss of one-million job opportunities.
2) Lost economic output of about R700-million per stage per day according to IRMSA’s ‘Risk Report 2022’.
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How does load shedding work?
When load shedding is required, a fixed plan for Load Shedding Schedules will go into operation.
These schedules are published by Eskom in advance to notify customers through the media of the days and times that they will be affected.
When load shedding is likely to occur outside the schedules, the media will be the main channel used by Eskom to keep customers informed.
How do I check my Eskom load shedding?
Visit www.eskom.co.za to get updates of load shedding schedules.
