The City of Johannesburg and City Power will remotely switch off geyser control systems to certain areas at specific times to manage electricity control across the city, it said on Friday.

“We also appeal to large power users and key business customers to reduce their usage of electricity by switching off all nonessential machinery, and other appliances, such as air conditioners and lighting,” it said in a statement.

“City Power also requests domestic customers and medium and small enterprises to reduce their electricity consumption by switching off nonessential appliances, such as office and basement lights, where possible.”

Eskom said on Thursday that the electricity system would be under severe strain over the weekend, and it requested municipalities to reduce demand by load shedding their customers.

City Power and the City of Johannesburg said customers should visit their websites to confirm the rolling blackout schedule, and have torches and lanterns at hand to light up their homes.

“Have candles and other alternative lighting systems available, ensure your security system has appropriate battery back-up, and find food and refreshments before the blackouts start.”

On Thursday, Eskom said it was planning countrywide power cuts over the weekend to build up reserves.

“The electricity system will remain constrained tomorrow [Friday] and the risk of load shedding remains high,” it said in a statement at the time.

“Eskom has also taken a decision to load shed over the weekend in order to build up reserves for the week ahead.”

The Nelson Mandela municipality said rolling blackouts started in the area at 11am.

In a statement, the municipality said it was highly probable there would be blackouts over the weekend.

“As always, the Nelson Mandela Bay municipality will implement load shedding in accordance with the schedule which is attached hereto,” it said. — Sapa