Load Shedding Schedule and Stages Explained
Load shedding is the controlled, rotational switching off of electricity to different areas to prevent a total collapse of the national power grid. Eskom implements load shedding when electricity generation capacity cannot meet national demand. This guide explains the stages, how to find your schedule, and how to prepare.
Why Does Load Shedding Happen?
South Africa's electricity grid is managed by Eskom, which operates a fleet of coal-fired, nuclear, hydro, pumped-storage, and renewable energy power stations. When multiple generating units break down or require maintenance simultaneously, total available generation capacity falls below national demand.
Rather than risk a total grid collapse (which would take days or weeks to restore), Eskom implements load shedding to balance supply and demand in a controlled way. Each stage of load shedding removes a specific amount of capacity from the grid.
Load Shedding Stages Explained
Load shedding is divided into stages that indicate the severity of the supply shortfall. The higher the stage, the more electricity needs to be removed from the grid and the more frequent the power cuts in any given area.
| Stage | Capacity Shortfall | Typical Duration per Day | Cuts per 4-Day Cycle |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stage 1 | 1,000 MW deficit | ~2 hours | 2 cuts of 2 hours each |
| Stage 2 | 2,000 MW deficit | ~4 hours | 4 cuts of 2 hours each |
| Stage 3 | 3,000 MW deficit | ~6 hours | 6 cuts of 2 hours each |
| Stage 4 | 4,000 MW deficit | ~8 hours | 8 cuts of 2 hours each |
| Stage 5 | 5,000 MW deficit | ~10-12 hours | More frequent cuts |
| Stage 6 | 6,000 MW deficit | ~12 hours | Most frequent cuts |
How to Find Your Load Shedding Schedule
Eskom publishes load shedding schedules on its website at www.loadshedding.eskom.co.za. Your area is assigned to a numbered block (for example Block 4 or Area 7). The schedule shows exactly when each block will experience power cuts during the current stage.
Most municipalities also publish their own local schedules on their websites or via free apps. Popular load shedding apps include EskomSePush, which sends push notifications and uses your GPS location to show your personalised schedule.
- Visit www.loadshedding.eskom.co.za for official Eskom schedules
- Download the EskomSePush app (Android and iOS) for real-time notifications
- Check your municipality's website for the local area schedule
- Follow @Eskom_SA on X (Twitter) for real-time stage announcements
- Call Eskom customer care on 08600 ESKOM (37566)
How to Prepare for Load Shedding
- Know your load shedding block number and download an app to receive advance warnings
- Keep a torch or battery-powered lantern charged and ready
- Invest in a UPS (uninterruptible power supply) to keep computers and internet routers running
- Store charged battery banks (power banks) for phones and essential devices
- Use a gas stove or gas braai for cooking during power cuts
- Set alarm clocks that are battery-powered or use your phone with mobile data
- Keep a cooler box ready for perishable food during extended cuts
- Consider a solar PV system or inverter-battery system for longer-term power backup
Check the official Eskom load shedding portal at www.loadshedding.eskom.co.za for the current stage and schedule. Eskom customer care: 08600 ESKOM (37566).
Load Shedding and Medical Equipment
People who depend on electrically powered medical equipment such as oxygen concentrators, dialysis machines, or CPAP machines should register their address as a medically sensitive location with their municipality or Eskom.
While registration does not guarantee exemption from load shedding, it ensures that emergency services are aware of vulnerable individuals in the area. Always have a battery backup plan for critical medical equipment.
Load Shedding and Your Rights
Load shedding schedules must be published in advance and followed as closely as possible. If your area experiences unscheduled or extended power cuts beyond the announced schedule, this may indicate a local fault rather than load shedding.
You can report an unscheduled outage to Eskom on 0800 111 155 or via SMS to 35328. Keep records of extended outages as these may be relevant to claims against your municipality or Eskom for damages.