Eskom has implemented Stage 1 load shedding and anticipates
that it will last until 21:00 on Friday 15 June.
The load shedding is a direct result of recent protest
action by some of Eskom employees over wage increases at some outlets,
according to an Eskom media statement.
Although there is a high risk of load shedding over the
weekend, the power utility says they are working with all relevant stakeholders
to keep its plants operating in ways most favourable to citizens.
“Eskom calls on all consumers to assist by reducing their
electricity consumption by switching off geysers, electric heating, pool pumps
and all non-essential appliances throughout the day,” the statement reads.
“Customers are cautioned to treat all electrical connections
as live during this period. We would like to thank our workers who have
continued working under very difficult circumstances and all South Africans who
have heeded the call to action to use electricity sparingly.”
A group of workers belonging to the National Union of
Metalworkers (Numsa) picketed outside Eskom’s regional office in Bellville
yesterday (Thursday 14 June) as a form of protest against the employer.
“We want Eskom to give us a 15 per cent wage increase, but
they are offering us nothing at the moment. We also want women to be granted
six months’ maternity leave and housing allowance, among others,” Khangela
Baloyi, regional Numsa shop steward, told TygerBurger.
“We will continue picketing until such time as our demands
are met.”
Baloyi said that a strike is not yet on the cards.
To view the load shedding schedule, visit Eskom’s website at
www.loadshedding.eskom.co.za
