Load Shedding.

Dear Members, South African electricity supply is currently under severe strain and it is anticipated that there will not be sufficient capacity to satisfy demand and provide adequate reserves unless all stakeholders partner to implement initiatives to ensure security of supply. SAPOA’s membership accounts for approximately 10% of the national electricity demand and include the largest property portfolios in the country. Due to a shortage of generation capacity as a result of several units currently out of service (due to planned and unplanned outages), SAPOA is urging commercial property owners to reduce the electricity consumption minimize load shedding. Any additional changes on the already vulnerable and constrained power system could lead to a change in the stage at short notice. “Eskom would like to assure customers that load shedding is implemented as a last resort to protect the power system from a complete blackout.” The power utility called on all customers on Wednesday to reduce the load on the electricity grid by urgently switching off geysers, air conditioners, pool pumps and all non-essential appliances throughout the day which will reduce electricity demand. Commercial customers, particularly shopping centre’s and office blocks, can also make a big difference by switching off non-essential lights and not leaving office equipment such as photocopiers and computers in standby mode after hours. Medupi, which is meant to provide Eskom with an additional 4 800 megawatts of power capacity, is facing further delays About 21 000 workers downed tools in a one day stay-away which was called by metalworkers union Numsa. The workers are voicing their frustration around accommodation and bonuses. SAPOA will communicate the extent and nature of the current supply-demand situation to ensure an acute awareness of the issue at hand. Your cooperation is much appreciated
27 Mar 2015
Author SAPOA