Power system is severely constrained with a high risk of increased stages of loadshedding in winter
18 May 2023
During the State of the System and Winter Outlook briefing this morning, Eskom cautioned that the power system is severely constrained and there is a high risk of elevated stages of loadshedding in winter. The outlook shows that with breakdowns or capacity unavailable due to unplanned maintenance at 15 000MW, loadshedding might be predominantly implemented at Stage 5 for the winter period. Should breakdowns reach 16 500MW, loadshedding might be implemented at Stage 6. If unplanned outages averages to 18 000MW, loadshedding might be required every day and might be implemented up to Stage 8. Eskom emphasises that the 18 000MW scenario that could culminate in Stage 8 is an ultimate worst case scenario that Eskom is working tirelessly to avert at all cost; by all means necessary.
In his opening remarks, Eskom Board Chairperson, Mpho Makwana said that going through the winter months will be difficult and called for a coordinated effort among all stakeholders.
“We fully comprehend the adverse impact that rotational loadshedding has on South Africa’s already fragile economy and its people. We are doing everything to mitigate the intensity of rotational loadshedding including taking lessons from the rest of the world. We have seen that effective rotational loadshedding during winter months requires a coordinated effort among all stakeholders within a country,” said Makwana
Makwana reiterated the Board’s support of Eskom management in their efforts to improve the performance and the life extension of the of the Generation coal-based power stations.