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Eskom to Enforce a 14-Hour Power Outage in Parts of Johannesburg
Eskom has announced a scheduled 14-hour power outage in parts of Johannesburg, specifically Lonehill, on Friday, 29 November 2024, from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM. The outage is part of planned essential maintenance on the utility’s distribution power lines.
Maintenance-Related Power Outage in Lonehill
The scheduled maintenance aims to ensure the stability and reliability of Johannesburg’s electricity supply. Eskom has urged residents to take precautions during the outage, reminding them to treat all electrical appliances as live.
“The interruption is necessary to perform essential maintenance on our distribution power lines,” Eskom stated. The utility also extended its gratitude to residents for their cooperation and apologized for any inconvenience caused by the outage.
Eskom Celebrates Load Shedding Milestone
In positive news, Eskom has successfully suspended load shedding for 233 consecutive days since 26 March 2024, marking a significant achievement under its Generation Recovery Plan. This strategy has stabilized the country’s energy supply and improved the performance of Eskom’s coal-fired fleet.
Key highlights of the plan include:
- A 70% reduction in diesel usage, saving R15.16 billion compared to 2023.
- Enhanced maintenance strategies leading to sustained electricity supply reliability.
Eskom’s ability to reduce operational costs reflects the effectiveness of its long-term energy solutions.
Minimal Impact from Kriel Power Station Incident
Eskom also addressed concerns regarding a fire incident at Unit 6 of the Kriel Power Station on 4 November 2024. The damage was minimal, and the unit is expected to return online without significant disruptions to the national electricity supply.
“The unit will not be offline for an extended period,” Eskom assured, further reinforcing its commitment to maintaining uninterrupted service.
How to Prepare for the Lonehill Power Outage
Residents in Lonehill and surrounding areas can take the following precautions to mitigate the effects of the outage:
- Charge Devices: Fully charge phones, laptops, and power banks before the outage begins.
- Backup Power: If possible, use generators or backup power solutions to maintain essential appliances.
- Safety Precautions: Treat all electrical outlets as live during the outage.
- Plan Ahead: Stock up on non-perishable foods, water, and flashlights for convenience.
For further updates, visit Eskom’s website or contact their customer care line.
Eskom’s Commitment to a Stable Energy Supply
While planned maintenance may cause short-term inconvenience, Eskom continues to focus on ensuring a reliable and sustainable electricity supply for South Africans. The achievements under the Generation Recovery Plan highlight the utility’s progress in addressing the country’s energy challenges.