Power utility Eskom has warned that stage two load shedding will increase after several employees downed tools in what appears to be unprotected strike action following a deadlock in wage negotiations on Tuesday.
Over the past 24 hours, several staff members have been protesting at nine power stations and other operating facilities.
“These protests included incidents of intimidation of working employees and blockading of roads leading to power stations and other facilities, inhibiting the free flow of personnel and commodities required for the generation of electricity and smooth operations,” Eskom said in a statement.
“The increased unavailability of plant has necessitated an extensive usage of emergency generation reserves, which are depleting faster than can be replenished.”
The utility has reiterated that the provision of electricity is an essential service, and industrial action is not permitted.
“Eskom appeals to its labour partners and striking employees to embrace the higher purpose of putting the people of South Africa first, respect the law and to desist from illegal and undemocratic conduct.”
In May, the National Union of Metalworkers of SA (Numsa) demanded a 15% wage increase across the board, which Eskom management maintained it could not afford.
On Wednesday Eskom confirmed that it reached a deadlock in talks with the union.
