Despite over 100 consecutive days without nationwide load shedding, Eskom is implementing targeted power cuts, known as load reduction, in seven South African provinces.
This is due to a resurgence of network overloading caused by persistent cold weather, increased electricity theft, and indiscriminate electricity use.
Targeted Provinces and Causes of Network Overload
The affected provinces include Limpopo, Western Cape, Eastern Cape, Gauteng, Mpumalanga, North West, and KwaZulu-Natal. Eskom attributes the overloading to the exponential rise in energy demand during winter, especially in areas prone to electricity theft and inefficient usage.
Load Reduction vs. Load Shedding
Eskom clarifies that load reduction differs from load shedding. Load reduction is a localized measure to protect electrical infrastructure from damage caused by excessive demand, while load shedding is a nationwide controlled blackout due to insufficient generation capacity.
Eskom currently has sufficient generation to meet demand, eliminating the need for load shedding.
Risks of Overloaded Transformers
Over 2,111 transformers across the country are frequently overloaded, with approximately 900 awaiting replacement. Overloaded transformers pose a significant risk of damage and potential explosions, endangering lives and causing prolonged power outages.
Roughly 94% of these overloaded transformers are concentrated in the seven affected provinces.
Load Reduction as a Last Resort
Eskom distribution group executive Monde Bala emphasizes that load reduction is implemented as a last resort to prevent transformer damage and ensure the safety of communities. A damaged transformer can result in an area being without power for up to six months.
Load reduction is most likely to occur during peak hours (5:00-7:00 and 17:00-19:00) when the risk of overloading is highest. Affected customers will be notified through SMS and newsletters.
Addressing Electricity Theft
Eskom highlights the widespread issue of electricity theft, including illegal connections, equipment theft, vandalism, and unauthorized operations. These activities contribute to network overloading and pose safety risks.
Efforts to Mitigate Overloading
Eskom has invested in expanding capacity to meet growing demand in vulnerable areas. However, the demand continues to outpace infrastructure development. The utility is engaging communities to educate them on safe and efficient electricity use and has removed illegal connections in some areas.
Eskom appeals to customers to reduce electricity consumption to prevent load reduction and protect the electrical grid. The utility also encourages reporting illegal activities to help combat electricity theft.