Eskom announced it will carry out a scheduled power outage in parts of Gauteng next week. Residents in Etwatwa Extension 7 will experience an electricity interruption on Tuesday, 29 April, from 8:00 to 18:00. The power utility explained that the outage is necessary to perform essential maintenance on distribution power lines.
“In the interest of safety, customers are advised to treat all electrical appliances as live at all times during the power supply outage,” Eskom warned.
The company also thanked residents for their cooperation and apologised for any inconvenience caused.
Eskom cautioned that unforeseen circumstances could cause a delay or cancellation of the planned maintenance. However, the utility emphasised that it remains committed to improving the stability of the electricity supply.
Eskom maintenance Supports Winter Readiness
While conducting the planned maintenance, Eskom assured the public that the national power system remains stable.
“In the past 24 hours a total of 3 320MW of generation capacity has been restored, ensuring a stable power system with enough supply to meet the long weekend’s demand,” Eskom stated.
Emergency reserves remain available and will be strategically used during periods of high demand.
According to Eskom, maintenance activities are crucial to prepare for the upcoming winter months, comply with regulations, and meet environmental standards.
“Year-to-date (1 to 24 April 2025), 7 164MW of the generation capacity has been under planned maintenance, on average,” the utility confirmed. This figure reflects a 3.8% increase compared to the same time last year.
Additionally, Eskom revealed that a further 4 058MW would be returned to service before the evening peak on Tuesday, helping to stabilise the grid further.
Efforts to combat overloads and illegal Connections
Despite suspending load shedding, Eskom urged the public to use electricity responsibly.
“While load shedding remains suspended and electricity demand continues to rise, Eskom urges the public to help prevent transformer overloads and related equipment failures, which can result in explosions and prolonged outages,” it said.
Customers are encouraged to avoid illegal connections, buy electricity only from accredited vendors, and regularise their electricity usage.
Eskom also reported spending R2.19 billion on fuel for the Open-Cycle Gas Turbines (OCGTs) fleet so far this year, generating more electricity than during the same period last year. This expense is expected to decrease as winter approaches and maintenance activities slow down.
The utility reminded residents to register for free basic electricity with local municipalities and report any infrastructure tampering to the Eskom Crime Line.
Eskom plans to release its winter outlook on 5 May.
What steps are you taking to prepare for possible electricity interruptions this winter?
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