Eskom said that although the probability of load shedding on Monday is low, it could still implement it if the demand for electricity increases in the evening.
“There is a low probability of rotational load shedding during the day as a result of power station units being returned to the system, but the probability of load shedding increases for the evening peak period from 5pm to 9pm due to the normal expected increase in demand,” said the power utility.
Eskom said should the need for load shedding arise, this would be carried out for four hours.
It will also advise if the rotational load shedding will be conducted in either stage 1, 2, 3 or 4, depending on the capacity shortage. Stage 1 requires 1GW to be shed nationwide, stage 2 2GW, stage 3 3GW and stage 4 calls for up to 4GW to be shed, said Eskom.
Load shedding is conducted as a measure of last resort to protect the power system from a total collapse or blackout.
The power utility said recovery teams at power stations continue to work hard to stabilise the power system and to return the generation plant as quick as possible.
“Eskom’s prognosis is that the power system will take up to approximately 10 days to recover from the effects of the recent industrial action, once all staff eventually return to work today.
“The estimated 10-day prognosis for full restoration is due to the effects of the industrial action which interrupted continuous processes at the power plants. These processes have now to be cleared out and restarted which would take additional time.” — SANews