This past weekend, South Africans were caught off guard as something all too familiar made its unwelcome return. After months of living in a world where we didn’t have to constantly check load shedding schedules, the power cuts suddenly reappeared—and this time, it came back with a vengeance.
The return of load shedding left many scrambling to adapt. Eskom’s ageing power stations, including Majuba near Ogies in Mpumalanga and Camden near Bethal, experienced unexpected breakdowns. By Saturday, 24 February, Eskom had implemented Stage 3 load shedding, but by Sunday, 25 February, the situation had escalated to Stage 6. Although power cuts were eased to Stage 4 by Monday, 26 February, uncertainty over South Africa’s electricity supply continues to cast a shadow over the weeks ahead.
As power cuts stretch for hours at a time, many are wondering how to navigate life amid these disruptions. Here are some practical tips to help South Africans survive load shedding:
- Be mindful of electricity usage. Unplug unnecessary devices, switch off lights when not in use, and rely on energy-efficient appliances to reduce strain on the grid.
- Stay informed. Regularly check Eskom’s load shedding schedules so you can plan your day and avoid unnecessary disruptions. Knowing when the power will go out helps you manage your activities better.
- Stock up on alternative lighting. Keep candles, rechargeable lights, or solar-powered lamps on hand to provide much-needed illumination during outages.
- Limit the use of power-hungry appliances. During summer, air conditioners, fans, and swimming pool pumps can place additional strain on the grid. Try to use them sparingly, especially during peak load shedding times.
- Keep devices charged. Have power banks ready to ensure your phones, laptops, and other essential electronics remain operational during extended outages.
- Manage food storage. With summer heat affecting refrigeration, consider using coolers or ice packs to keep food fresh for longer periods.
The return of load shedding may have caught South Africans off guard, but with a bit of preparation and energy-conscious habits, we can weather the storm and reduce the impact on our daily lives.
