Load shedding: Daytime relief, evening stage 2 for the week ahead

Eskom, South Africa’s power utility, has announced its load shedding schedule for the upcoming week, indicating a fluctuation between daytime suspensions and Stage 2 load shedding in the evenings.

To prepare emergency reserves for the week ahead, Stage 2 load shedding will commence from 16:00 on Sunday, lasting until 5:00 on Monday morning.

Following this, a temporary reprieve will occur between 5:00 and 16:00, only to transition back to Stage 2 load shedding in the evenings from 16:00 to 05:00 until further notice.

The pattern will be repeated until further notice

“This pattern of suspending loadshedding from 05:00 until 16:00 and Stage 2 loadshedding from 16:00 until 05:00 will be repeated daily until further notice,” stated Eskom.

This strategic approach aims to balance the need for power conservation. It also addresses the public’s demand for electricity during crucial daytime hours.

Eskom reassures the public that any significant deviations from this schedule will be promptly communicated. This ensures transparency and minimal disruption.

Useful tips to deal with load shedding

The Western Cape Government offers practical advice to cope with load shedding, emphasising access, security, and safety measures. Here are some tips to consider:

• Release automatic electric garage door mechanisms to ensure access to your property during power outages.
• Switch electric security gates to manual operation to prevent being locked out or in your home.
• Keep temporary lighting handy, such as battery-powered torches and candles, placed in easily accessible locations for use during blackouts.
• Keep a torch with fresh batteries by your bedside for immediate use during nighttime power cuts.
• Consider acquiring a small LP gas lamp for high-quality lighting over a large area during extended load shedding periods.

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