Loadshedding Returns: Eskom Faces Public Outcry
- South Africans reacted with anger and frustration after Eskom announced the return of loadshedding.
- Eskom CEO Dan Marokane cited unexpected power station breakdowns as the reason behind the decision to reintroduce rolling blackouts.
- Social media erupted as citizens criticized Eskom for failing to maintain uninterrupted power supply for a full year.
With over seven years of experience covering current affairs, including food, energy, loadshedding, fuel prices, and environmental issues for platforms like Daily Sun and Vutivi Business News, Tebogo Mokwena brings a wealth of knowledge to Briefly News.
JOHANNESBURG — The announcement of loadshedding’s return on January 31, 2025, left many South Africans feeling a mix of anger, frustration, and helplessness. The state-owned power utility, Eskom, left no stone unturned in sparking heated discussions across social media platforms as citizens voiced their discontent with the decision. People from all walks of life weighed in, questioning the reliability and accountability of Eskom.
When Did Loadshedding Make a Comeback?
Eskom revealed that unforeseen breakdowns at its power stations necessitated swift action to replenish reserves, leading to the implementation of Stage 3 loadshedding over the weekend. These breakdowns, unfortunately, require extended repair times, leaving Eskom with no choice but to resort to rolling blackouts. Just days earlier, on January 21, Eskom had celebrated an impressive 300 days without loadshedding, even pledging to aim for a full year of uninterrupted power supply. However, the unexpected failures dashed those hopes, leaving many disheartened.
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How Did South Africans React?
Despite Eskom's assurance that the loadshedding would only be temporary, Facebook users were quick to express their outrage. The public reaction was immediate and widespread, with many taking to social media to vent their frustrations and disappointment with the state-owned entity. Here’s what some South Africans had to say:
Antoinette Henn expressed her disbelief, stating:
“They’re just being spiteful because they didn’t get the percentage increase they wanted. They must think we’re fools.”
Malome Khoza chimed in, suggesting a change in political support:
“It’s time now that our people should stop voting for the ANC.”
Glen de Wildt echoed similar sentiments:
“Because they didn’t get what they wanted, so now they are punishing us.”
Liz Rudy offered a prediction:
“We all knew this was coming.”
Thabiso Thiza criticized Eskom’s actions:
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“Eskom is disrespecting and undermining the people of this country.”
Dave Singh pointed a finger at governance:
“Nothing to be shocked about. We have a corrupt government.”
Qongqo Samai Qapela summed up the sentiment of disappointment:
“South Africa never fails when it comes to disappointing its fellow citizens.”
Kubie Pachappa highlighted the financial burden:
“Eskom has their excuses. But we still have to pay.”
NERSA Approves Tariff Hikes Amid Public Discontent
In related news, Briefly News reported that the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) approved a 12.7% tariff increase for Eskom. This decision comes after Eskom initially requested an increase exceeding 30%. NERSA announced that the new tariffs would take effect on April 1, much to the dismay of South Africans already burdened by financial strain. Additionally, NERSA plans to approve further tariff hikes in the upcoming financial years, sparking renewed frustration among the public.
The combination of loadshedding and rising electricity costs paints a challenging picture for South Africans, who continue to navigate the complexities of an energy crisis that seems far from resolution. As the nation grapples with these challenges, many are left wondering what the future holds for Eskom and the country's energy landscape.
