“Eskom is setting a record-breaking pace for breakdowns and the use of its expensive diesel backup generators.”
On average, load shedding occurs every 2.3 days, usually at Stage 2.
This is despite the extensive usage of pricey diesel-powered open-cycle gas turbines meant to overcome brief gaps. The planned maintenance levels are more than the previous year.
“Eskom’s data shows that its planned maintenance outages are lower as South Africa slides into winter, as per usual, but are higher than this time last year.”
Now, according to Business Tech, unscheduled outages are approaching 30 percent.
Another factor impacting load shedding is Russia’s war on Ukraine. Although Eskom has no direct suppliers from Russia or Ukraine, it has sub-suppliers from Russia. “Eskom’s Chief Operating Officer Jan Oberholzer told the media that they are concerned and evaluating the impact the current Ukraine conflict would have on the power producer.”
Meanwhile, in entertainment news, Diddy just announced that Travis Scott will be performing at this year’s 2022 Billboard Music Awards. It’ll be Scott’s first performance since the tragic Astroworld performance in November 2021. Diddy, the executive producer and host of the BBMAs, demanded that Travis Scott take the stage. The BBMAs takes place on 15 May in Las Vegas.
Here are the top trending stories of the day.
Headline: Ramaphosa warns against purging of rivals after sealing crucial backing for re-election bid – News24 (for subscribers)
Headline: Eskom is setting a record pace for outages and diesel use in May – Business Insider SA
Headline: Travis Scott to Perform at 2022 Billboard Music Awards – Pitchfork
Headline: ‘Avatar 2’ teaser trailer is finally here – Huffington Post
Headline: Star-studded Downs feel they need more – Sowetan Live
Headline: Erling Haaland: Manchester City set to trigger Borussia Dortmund striker’s £64m release clause – The Independent
Headline: Russia-Ukraine war: what we know on day 76 of the invasion – The Guardian
Headline: Climate change: Global temperature could be warmest on record in one of the next five years, Met Office warns – Sky News
Image credit: Gallo Images
