Bloemfontein - Eskom on Friday released a statement saying the supplier has no other choice but to implement load shedding countrywide over the weekend.

The statement from Eskom:

Eskom will implement rotational load shedding in stage 2 over the weekend in a bid to augment its water and diesel reserves for the week ahead. Load shedding will be from 6:00 to 22:00 on Saturday and 8:00 to 22:00 on Sunday.

The power system is extremely constrained today and into the weekend, which will necessitate the use of open cycle gas turbines (OCGTs) for most of today. We anticipate that a portion of the capacity normally imported from Cahora Bassa hydroelectric (HCB) power station in Mozambique will be unavailable on Sunday as the plant undergoes urgent planned maintenance.

Next week, the electricity system will be constrained on Monday and Tuesday. Emergency reserves will be used through the evening peaks but any unforeseen technical problems at power stations or an increase in demand due to the weather conditions could necessitate the implementation of rotational load shedding. Eskom will however provide regular updates on the power supply situation through various media.

Eskom calls on consumers to urgently switch off geysers, air conditioners, pool pumps and all non-essential appliances throughout the day to limit the impact of rotational load shedding. As workers leave office buildings this evening we ask that they please switch off the lights, with the exception of security lighting and they should avoid leaving on air-conditioning overnight.

Eskom’s load shedding schedules are available for Eskom direct customers on our website ( http://loadshedding.eskom.co.za/ ). Customers can also contact our call centre 0860 037 566 for additional information. Municipal customers should contact their respective municipalities for their specific schedules. Load shedding schedules will only be utilised for the duration of the constraint.

For tips on how to trim 10% off your consumption, please visit www.eskom.co.za/idm