What is Load Shedding?

Last updated: January 28, 2026

A simple explanation of load shedding - why it happens, how it works, and what it means for South Africans.

Quick answer: load shedding is controlled power cuts to keep the grid stable when demand exceeds supply. Load shedding is the deliberate shutdown of electrical power in parts of the power grid to prevent the entire system from collapsing when there isn't enough electricity to meet demand.

Load Shedding Explained Simply

Think of the electricity grid like a scale that must stay balanced. On one side is electricity supply (from power stations), on the other side is demand (everyone using electricity). When demand is higher than supply, the scale tips and the whole system could crash. Load shedding removes some demand (by switching off areas) to keep the scale balanced and prevent a total blackout.

Why Does Load Shedding Happen?

The main reasons for load shedding in South Africa:

Old power stations breaking down frequently
Years of poor maintenance at Eskom
New power stations (Medupi, Kusile) delayed and over budget
Growing electricity demand from population and economy
Diesel and coal supply issues
Sabotage and theft at power stations

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How Load Shedding Works

The load shedding process:

1. Eskom monitors supply vs demand constantly
2. When supply is too low, they announce a stage (1-8)
3. Each stage removes a certain amount of load from the grid
4. Areas are switched off in rotation according to schedules
5. Each area is off for 2-4 hours depending on the stage
6. When supply improves, the stage is reduced or ended

Price Disclaimer: Prices shown were verified on 29 January 2026. Prices may change without notice. We earn affiliate commissions on qualifying purchases.

All prices are in South African Rand (ZAR) unless otherwise stated. Shipping costs may apply depending on your location.

Causes of Load Shedding Load Shedding Stages Solutions

What is Load Shedding FAQs

Load shedding will likely continue until 2025-2027 while new power capacity comes online. The government is adding renewable energy, emergency power ships, and private generation. Long-term, solar power offers South Africans independence from the grid.

No, load shedding happens in many developing countries with electricity shortages. However, South Africa's load shedding is particularly severe and long-running due to Eskom's unique challenges with aging infrastructure and management issues.

Load shedding is controlled, rotating power outages implemented by Eskom when electricity demand exceeds supply. Different areas are switched off in stages (1-8) for 2-4 hours at a time according to published schedules.

Use the EskomSePush app (most popular), your municipality's website, or Eskom's loadshedding page. Enter your suburb or block number to see your specific schedule.

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