Stage 1 loadshedding was implemented this morning and will be in place until further notice after Eskom suspended rolling blackouts on Christmas Day.
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According to spokesperson, Sikonathi Mantshantsha, the power utility was implementing the lowest level due to the decreased demand for electricity during the festive season, allowing them to reduce the reliance on emergency generation reserves.
2022 has seen South Africa gripped with record high levels of loadshedding as South Africa experienced stage 6 on more than one occasion.
In an effort to combat alleged sabotage at some of Eskom’s power stations during this festive season, President Cyril Ramaphosa ordered members of the South African National Defense Force to man some of the power stations as a deterrent.
Also read: André de Ruyter steps down as Eskom’s CEO
Eskom’ recently announced the resignation of group chief executive Andre De Ruyter who is only expected to leave office in March next year.
This came after calls for De Ruyter to vacate office after he failed to end load shedding.
“De Ruyter has agreed to stay for an additional period beyond the stipulated 30-days’ notice to ensure continuity while we urgently embark on a search for his successor. His last day at Eskom will be March 31, 2023,” said Eskom board chairperson Mpho Makwana said of his resignation.
Amid speculation as to who would take up the position, the Eskom Board confirmed there was no plan for chairperson Makwana to become an interim CEO, and that a comprehensive executive search would be conducted to find a suitably qualified candidate.
“It has been an honour and privilege to serve Eskom and South Africa. I wish all the hard-working people of Eskom well,” De Ruyter stated.
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Eskom confirms the suspension of loadshedding on Christmas Day
Picture: Cape{town}Etc Library
