Stage 2 Loadshedding – South Africans may finally see some light at the end of the tunnel as Eskom hints at the possibility of skipping Stage 2 loadshedding this week. With 2,730 megawatts (MW) of power expected to return to the grid by June 29, optimism is high — but not without caution. While this is a much-needed break from persistent blackouts, officials have warned that system volatility remains a serious concern. In recent months, South Africans have endured multiple phases of loadshedding, causing widespread disruptions in daily life, business operations, education, and essential services. However, as several major generation units undergo successful maintenance and repairs, Eskom forecasts a potential decrease in the frequency and intensity of power cuts for the short term. Still, this development is not guaranteed. Eskom has stated that while Stage 2 could be skipped temporarily, this relief depends on the timely return of specific power stations and the continued stability of remaining infrastructure. Moreover, the utility’s ongoing battle with high levels of unplanned breakdowns and fuel constraints poses a serious risk. This article explores all key updates, expected power returns, potential hurdles, regional impact, and important advisory information for the public. We also include departmental contact details and frequently asked questions to help you stay informed and prepared.
What’s Happening This Week with Stage 2 Loadshedding?
Eskom has announced that over 2,700MW will be restored to the grid by June 29, which could help reduce or even skip loadshedding for a few days.
- 2,730MW is expected to return from generation units under maintenance.
- If stable, Stage 2 loadshedding might not be implemented at all this week.
- Eskom warns this is subject to “no further breakdowns”.
- Current demand forecast remains manageable due to moderate winter temperatures.
- Grid stability will be monitored every 6 hours.
- Large-scale use of diesel for Open Cycle Gas Turbines (OCGTs) has been reduced.
Stage 2 Loadshedding – Key Power Stations Returning This Week
Several power stations undergoing urgent repair and maintenance are scheduled to return online before June 29.
Major Power Units Set to Return by June 29
| Power Station | Unit No. | Expected Return Date | Capacity (MW) | Status | Region | Risk Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Medupi | Unit 4 | June 27 | 720 | Final testing stage | Limpopo | Low |
| Kusile | Unit 2 | June 28 | 750 | Maintenance complete | Mpumalanga | Medium |
| Kendal | Unit 5 | June 26 | 600 | Cooling restoration | Mpumalanga | Medium |
| Matimba | Unit 3 | June 29 | 475 | System reboot pending | Limpopo | Low |
| Lethabo | Unit 6 | June 27 | 400 | Grid synchronization | Free State | High |
| Arnot | Unit 1 | June 28 | 385 | Turbine repair done | Mpumalanga | Medium |
| Camden | Unit 7 | June 29 | 400 | Testing in progress | Mpumalanga | High |
| Total | – | By June 29 | 2,730 | – | National | Varies |
Departmental Note:
Power Station returns are subject to final engineering checks, weather conditions, and real-time grid demand.
Challenges That Could Disrupt This Stage 2 Loadshedding Schedule
Although there’s relief in sight, the situation remains fragile. Several risks could reverse the progress made.
- Unplanned Breakdowns: Eskom continues to battle unexpected equipment failures, especially in older plants.
- Fuel Supply Constraints: Some plants may still face delays due to limited diesel or coal supplies.
- Grid Instability: If consumer demand spikes unexpectedly, grid balancing becomes difficult.
- Technical Delays: Engineering faults during testing phases can postpone returns.
- Labour Unrest: Strikes or workforce shortages may delay operational work.
Eskom’s Backup Measures in Place
To minimize the impact of potential failures, Eskom has outlined a few contingency strategies.
- Keeping diesel generators (OCGTs) on standby.
- Delaying non-essential maintenance tasks temporarily.
- Requesting industries to operate on minimal loads during peak hours.
- Engaging with Independent Power Producers (IPPs) for emergency energy feed-ins.
- Adjusting hydroelectric support during evening peaks.
Regional Impact and Timings
This temporary relief may not apply uniformly across all provinces. Power distribution depends on regional grid health.
Areas That Could See Immediate Improvement
| Province | Likely Relief Window | Power Stability Level | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gauteng | June 26–30 | High | Minimal to no cuts expected |
| Western Cape | June 27–29 | Medium | Reduced loadshedding windows |
| KwaZulu-Natal | June 28–30 | Medium | Daytime relief possible |
| Eastern Cape | June 29–30 | Low | Night outages may still occur |
| Limpopo | June 27–30 | High | Due to Medupi and Matimba returns |
| Mpumalanga | June 26–30 | Medium | Critical for national output |
| Free State | June 29–30 | Low | Risk if Lethabo returns are late |
How Citizens Can Prepare Despite the Optimism
Even though loadshedding may pause briefly, experts urge the public to remain cautious and proactive.
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- Continue using solar lights and UPS backups.
- Limit use of heavy appliances during peak hours (5 PM–9 PM).
- Download offline versions of EskomSePush app schedules.
- Switch off geysers and non-essential devices when not in use.
- Keep emergency phone chargers ready.
- Avoid panic buying of fuel or gas.
- Businesses should still operate on power-saving modes.
What to Do If Your Area Still Faces Outages
Despite grid improvement, some areas may still face rolling blackouts. Here’s what you should do:
- Report power failures immediately via Eskom’s website or call center.
- Check your municipal power provider’s latest update.
- Keep updated via social media (Eskom, NERSA).
- Contact local ward offices for scheduled maintenance insights.
- Don’t attempt home-based electrical fixes; wait for officials.
Eskom and Government Contact Details for Loadshedding Queries
To get real-time support or raise complaints, reach out to the following verified departments.
| Department | Contact Method | Phone Number | Email / Website | Available Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eskom Customer Support | Call Centre | 08600 37566 | [email protected] | 24/7 |
| Department of Energy | Official Helpdesk | 012 406 7700 | [email protected] | Mon–Fri, 8 AM–4 PM |
| NERSA (Complaints) | Helpline | 012 401 4600 | [email protected] | Mon–Fri, 8 AM–5 PM |
| City Power (Joburg) | Regional Support | 011 490 7484 | [email protected] | 24/7 |
| Cape Town Municipality | Electricity Services | 0860 103 089 | [email protected] | 24/7 |
Even with promising numbers, it’s essential to stay prepared. The coming days may bring temporary relief, but South Africa’s power situation remains vulnerable to sudden disruptions. Until long-term solutions are implemented, continued energy-saving habits and public vigilance are necessary to navigate the ongoing crisis.
FAQs on This Week’s Loadshedding Outlook
Q1. Will loadshedding definitely be skipped this week?
No. Eskom says there’s a possibility, but it depends on unit performance and stability.
Q2. What if my area still has power cuts?
It could be due to local grid issues or scheduled maintenance. Contact your local electricity provider.
Q3. How long will this relief last?
Possibly for 3–5 days, but breakdowns can change this in hours.
Q4. Is there any government plan for long-term solutions?
Yes. IPP integration, solar incentives, and energy reforms are in progress, but they will take time.
Q5. Can I rely on apps for outage alerts?
Yes. EskomSePush and municipal websites are helpful and updated frequently.
