Eskom to Switch Off Power – South Africans are once again bracing for widespread power cuts as Eskom has announced a 14-hour load shedding plan affecting multiple provinces. The planned outage, which is part of Eskom’s ongoing rotational load reduction schedule, aims to stabilize the national grid amid growing energy demand and ongoing maintenance backlogs. Residents are advised to check their local schedules and prepare for disruptions.
Below is a comprehensive guide on when and where the power cuts will occur, how to prepare, and whom to contact in case of emergencies.
Why is Eskom to Switch Off Power ?
The 14-hour power cut is part of Eskom’s Phase 6 load shedding, brought about by the following factors:
- Unplanned breakdowns of generation units
- Scheduled maintenance at key power stations
- Rising demand as winter approaches
- Low emergency reserves
Eskom officials stated that this long-duration load shedding is a temporary but necessary measure to prevent a total collapse of the grid.
Affected Provinces and Timings: Check Your Area’s Load Shedding Hours
The following provinces will face power interruptions under the updated 14-hour load shedding plan:
| Province | Load Shedding Start | Load Shedding End | Stage | Cities Affected |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gauteng | 06:00 AM | 08:00 PM | Stage 6 | Johannesburg, Pretoria |
| Western Cape | 05:00 AM | 07:00 PM | Stage 6 | Cape Town, Stellenbosch |
| KwaZulu-Natal | 04:00 AM | 06:00 PM | Stage 5 | Durban, Pietermaritzburg |
| Eastern Cape | 07:00 AM | 09:00 PM | Stage 5 | Gqeberha, East London |
| Free State | 08:00 AM | 10:00 PM | Stage 6 | Bloemfontein |
| Limpopo | 06:00 AM | 08:00 PM | Stage 5 | Polokwane |
| Mpumalanga | 05:00 AM | 07:00 PM | Stage 5 | Nelspruit |
| North West | 06:30 AM | 08:30 PM | Stage 6 | Mahikeng, Rustenburg |
Note: Schedule is subject to change. Always confirm timings via Eskom’s official load shedding portal or your local municipality website.
Tips to Survive the 14-Hour Power Outage
Prepare well in advance to minimize the inconvenience caused by the extended power cuts:
- Charge all devices ahead of time
- Keep emergency lights and power banks ready
- Stock up on non-perishable food and bottled water
- Unplug appliances to avoid power surges
- Install gas or battery-powered stoves for cooking
- Monitor updates via Eskom’s App or social media
How to Check Your Load Shedding Schedule Online
To stay updated with real-time load shedding schedules:
Eskom Helpdesk and Contact Details
For queries, complaints, or emergency help:
- Eskom National Call Centre: 08600 37566
- Email: [email protected]
- Twitter: @Eskom_SA
- Load Shedding App: EskomSePush
Consumers are encouraged to report localised faults or streetlight issues directly to their municipality’s electricity department.
Impact on Daily Life and Essential Services
Many sectors will be impacted, particularly:
- Hospitals will switch to backup generators
- Schools may cancel or shift classes
- Businesses face production losses
- Water supply and traffic systems could be disrupted
Government and Eskom’s Long-Term Solution Plans
To combat the energy crisis, Eskom and the government are:
- Fast-tracking renewable energy projects
- Increasing private sector energy production
- Expanding battery storage and microgrids
- Implementing infrastructure upgrades
FAQs of Eskom to Switch Off Power
Q1: Will backup generators be enough for hospitals and public facilities?
Yes, most public hospitals are equipped with industrial backup generators.
Q2: What if I experience a blackout outside scheduled hours?
This could be due to faults. Contact Eskom or your local municipality immediately.
Q3: Are any areas exempt from load shedding?
Critical areas like hospitals and police stations are often exempt or face reduced hours.
Q4: Will prepaid meters work during load shedding?
Yes, but ensure your meter is charged before the outage.
Q5: How can I claim for damaged appliances after a power surge?
You must lodge a claim via Eskom’s damage claims department within 30 days, with proof of loss.
Conclusion of Eskom to Switch Off Power
While Eskom’s 14-hour load shedding may feel like a massive disruption, it is part of a larger plan to protect the integrity of South Africa’s electricity grid. Staying informed and prepared is the best defense. Use official platforms for accurate updates and avoid misinformation.
For the latest updates, always refer to the official Eskom website or contact their 24-hour helpdesk.