South Africans Brace for Possible Stage 4 Load Shedding as Eskom Faces Setback

South Africans could face Stage 4 load shedding this weekend as Eskom warns of a high risk of power cuts due to recent breakdowns in its generation fleet.

This marks the first major power alert in over 10 months, after a period of stability in the national grid.

Why is Load Shedding Returning?

Breakdowns in Power Stations

• Several units have experienced unplanned breakdowns over the past week, requiring longer repair times.
• This has depleted Eskom’s emergency reserves, which now need to be replenished.

Energy Supply vs. Demand

• South Africa’s energy supply remains fragile, despite Eskom’s improved performance in 2023.
• The power utility warned that it has been relying on Open Cycle Gas Turbines (OCGTs) to keep the lights on.

Eskom’s 2025 Outlook

• The 52-week outlook had already predicted supply shortfalls for January and February.
• Eskom also anticipates a likely shortfall of over 2,000MW during winter months (May – August).

What Eskom Says About the Risk

In its latest statement, Eskom assured South Africans that load shedding is not making a full return, but the current emergency situation may require short-term power cuts.

Eskom Statement:

Eskom has promised to issue further updates as the situation develops.

What This Means for South Africans

Stage 4 Load Shedding Impact

• Scheduled power cuts up to four times a day, lasting two hours per session.
• Businesses, particularly retail and manufacturing, could face operational disruptions.
• Traffic congestion expected in major metros due to non-functional traffic lights.

How to Prepare:
Check load shedding schedules via the Eskom Se Push app or municipal websites.
Charge devices and power banks ahead of possible outages.
Stock up on backup lighting such as rechargeable lamps or candles.
Plan ahead if working remotely or running a business reliant on power.

Will Load Shedding Return Long-Term?

Energy experts have long warned that South Africa’s power crisis isn’t over.

While Eskom has made significant operational improvements, the grid remains fragile.

Key risks ahead:

• Breakdowns at aging power stations
• Delays in renewable energy projects
• Winter power demand spikes

Eskom maintains that its summer outlook remains unchanged, but this latest warning highlights the ongoing risk of power instability.

Stay Updated

Follow Eskom’s official channels for real-time updates.
Keep an eye on municipal load shedding schedules.
Check back for further developments as Eskom provides more clarity.

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