Load-Shedding Escalates Further, Eskom Will Run Stage 6 Load-Shedding

Eskom says in a statement that "Stage 6 loadshedding will continue to be implemented over the weekend, in order to replenish emergency reserves and set a possible path for the reduction in stages of loadshedding in the coming week."

• This represents further escalation in rolling blackouts, with the utility previously moving between Stages 4 and 6. Eskom was forced to ramp up power rationing due to icy weather conditions, which translated into heightened demand for electricity.
• The utility says that "the increase in the demand for electricity due to the cold weather, particularly on Monday and Tuesday, was anticipated, however this demand exceeded what was forecasted."
• Eskom adds that "due to the failure of additional generation units since Sunday, the [generation] reserves have been depleted and can no longer buffer the lingering effects of the cold weather."