Eskom announces the weekend loadshedding schedule starting Friday, 28 June 2024, amid ongoing efforts to maintain a stable power supply.
Weekend loadshedding schedule starting Friday, 28 June 2024
Despite a notable period of stability, Eskom is prepared to implement loadshedding if necessary to manage the power grid effectively.
This weekend’s schedule aims to provide a clear outline for South Africans to plan their activities accordingly.
The loadshedding schedule, though currently suspended, is in place as a precautionary measure.
Eskom’s recent success in maintaining a steady power supply for 93 consecutive days is attributed to improved operational efficiency and proactive maintenance efforts.
In a statement, the power utility confirmed that crews have worked diligently to reduce unplanned outages and enhance the reliability of the coal generation fleet.
However, the potential for loadshedding remains, particularly during peak demand times.
Here’s a look at the provisional weekend loadshedding schedule starting Friday, 28 June 2024:
Date | 05:00 – 16:00 | 16:00 – 20:00 | 20:00 – 00:00 | 00:00 – 05:00 |
Fri 28 June 24 | Suspended* | Suspended* | Suspended* | Suspended* |
Sat 29 June 24 | Suspended* | Suspended* | Suspended* | Suspended* |
Sun 30 June 24 | Suspended* | Suspended* | Suspended* | Suspended* |
What is the state of the power system?
Eskom has reported significant improvements in the power system’s stability.
The Unplanned Capacity Loss Factor (UCLF) has decreased from 35.1% to 27.1% compared to the same period last year.
This 8% improvement is a notch to Eskom’s improved maintenance and operational strategies.
The Energy Availability Factor (EAF) has also seen a positive trend, increasing to 61.3% year-to-date, up from 54.3% last year.
This improvement is largely due to a reduction in unplanned outages, which averaged 11,793 MW over the past week.
The strategic utilisation of Open-Cycle Gas Turbines (OCGTs) has played a crucial role in meeting peak demand, especially during evening hours from 17:00 to 22:00.
Eskom’s expenditure on OCGTs has significantly decreased, spotlighting a more efficient use of resources.
From 1 April to 27 June 2024, Eskom spent R3.13 billion on OCGTs, generating 453.95 GWh, compared to R9.30 billion for 1,534.79 GWh during the same period last year.
Will Eskom implement loadshedding this winter?
Eskom’s Winter Outlook, published on 26 April 2024, anticipated unplanned outages at 15,500 MW and limited loadshedding to Stage 2.
Despite this forecast, Eskom has managed to maintain a steady power supply without implementing loadshedding for over three months.
However, with the arrival of colder weather, electricity demand has increased, and the potential for loadshedding remains if the power system becomes strained.
Eskom has urged consumers to moderate their electricity usage, especially during peak times, to prevent network overloading and ensure a stable power supply.
Looking ahead, Eskom plans to return approximately 3,650 MW of generating capacity to service by Monday, 1 July 2024, further strengthening the power system.
The projected evening peak demand for Friday, 28 June 2024, is 29,892 MW.
Eskom will provide an update on the power system’s status next Friday, 5 July 2024, or sooner if significant changes occur.