​Load-shedding stages: 

Load-shedding stages depend on the extent of the shortage of generation capacity to meet the country’s electricity demand, with stage 1 being the least serious, and stage 8 being the most serious. Outages generally last for about 2,5 hours. Due to technical issues there can be minor changes in the load-shedding area boundaries from time to time.

​Outage tips:

Switch off and unplug all electronics and appliances when the power is due to go off as it may come back with a spike in the voltage, which can damage electronic devices such as computers, television sets, DVD players, etc.
If your electricity remains off for longer than the period specified in the schedule, SMS the City’s technical operations centre on 31220. The restoration of power sometimes results in what is described as ‘nuisance tripping’, which often goes unreported due to the assumption that the outage is due to load-shedding.
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Be prepared:
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• Cash: Keep some cash on you as ATMs cannot operate without electricity
• Communication: Ensure that your cell phone, laptop, tablet and radio are always fully charged when power is available. This will allow you to be able to communicate with friends and family during load-shedding
• Eating: If you do not have a gas stove, prepare meals before the power is scheduled to be switched off. Boil water in your kettle and keep it in thermos flasks for hot drinks. You can also use an insulating cover on teapots, pots and pans to keep drinks and meals warm
• Most medication requiring refrigeration can be kept in a closed fridge for several hours without spoiling but you should check with your doctor or pharmacist if in doubt
• Security and safety: Backup batteries for electrically operated gates, garage doors and security systems should be kept in a good working condition and be able to last through periods of load-shedding. Store temporary lighting such as battery-powered torches, gas lamps and candles in places where they will be easy to find in the dark
• Transport: Make sure that your vehicle always has fuel in the tank as most petrol stations are unable to pump fuel during power outages.

COMMENTS/ADVICE FROM THE LOCAL FOLKS:
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Just to advise those visiting SA for the reunion: we are currently experiencing a severe shortage of electricity resulting in “loadshedding” - when the power is cut to an area on rotation for 2 and sometimes 4 hours around two to four times a day. This is unlikely to improve by the time of the reunion.
Most of the larger establishments have alternative power arrangements.

• On-the-Rocks says they can provide a full service except coffee during loadshedding.
• Moyo says that some dishes like fried fish and coffee are not available during loadshedding
• The Neuroscience Institute is not affected.

I expect it will not be a problem for the wine farm braai.
I suggest people check with their accommodation what the arrangements are. Lifts in hotels are unlikely to work.
Bring a torch/flashlight.
Regards,
Lance Michell
Dec 22, 2022