Homed under the insights tab of the app, the tool shows the current status of the grid, including how much power is needed and how much is available.
It also has a forecast graph to show when the grid is likely to be under the most pressure, and when it may be time to switch off some appliances.
“The power alert makes use of real-time data and takes into account historical loads, current real-time loads, weather conditions, supply and network conditions to forecast electricity demand,” it explained.
When the forecast graph falls into the green zone, there is enough electricity on the grid and no load-shedding is expected. If it falls inside the orange zone, it shows demand is reaching the maximum power Eskom can generate and the chance of load-shedding increases.
“If preventative measures, including load-shedding, are insufficient, the national grid will collapse. A blackout is unforeseen and therefore the system operator will not be able to make an announcement in advance,” said Eskom.
“A national blackout will have massive implications, and every effort is made to prevent this from occurring. Depending on the nature of the emergency, it could take a few weeks for the grid to recover from a blackout.”
Public enterprises minister Pravin Gordhan said this week there will soon be a restructuring of the Eskom board.
The Sunday Times reported the cabinet had met about a new board.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has urged South Africans to use electricity sparingly.
“We must come together as citizens to alleviate the pressure on the national grid. This means using electricity sparingly, reporting illegal connections and paying for the electricity we use.
“Businesses, households and government departments that owe Eskom must pay so Eskom is better able to undertake the critical maintenance needed to keep the lights on.”
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