Eskom has issued a warning that labor unrest that has disrupted operations may result in intensified load shedding.
Nine of the power utility’s power stations and other operating facilities have seen protests over the last 24 hours from some of its employees who have gone on an unprotected strike after Tuesday’s salary negotiations came to a standstill.
At times during protests, working staff were intimidated, and highways leading to power plants and other facilities were blocked, preventing the free movement of people and goods needed for the efficient production of electricity.
“The increased plant unavailability has required a significant use of emergency generating reserves, which are exhausting more quickly than they can be replenished.
Eskom warned the public on Friday that the likelihood of operational problems and the deployment of load shedding at higher stages would increase should these criminal acts of intimidation continue or grow.
Since Monday, Stage 2 load shedding has been in effect, and it is anticipated to last until Sunday.
The power utility also noted that the power system had been experiencing significant stress for some time prior to these issues.
Electricity delivery is a necessary service for which industrial action is prohibited. To guarantee smooth operations and keep load shedding to the current level or lower, free mobility of workers and the transit of goods into and out of power plants is crucial.
Eskom urged its labor allies and the striking workers to uphold the greater ideal of putting South Africa’s citizens first, follow the law, and refrain from illegal and anti-democratic behavior.
“Eskom has reported these acts of illegality to the South African Police Service (SAPS) and requested the aid of the SAPS and other security agencies in restoring order,” states the statement from Eskom, “while investigating viable options to unlock the deadlock on the wage talks.”
The majority of Eskom’s staff members, many of whom go above and beyond the call of duty, have received thanks and recognition.